STORY
Andy Burnham has launched his campaign for the Makerfield by-election, saying the contest should be used to send a message that Labour needs to change. The Greater Manchester Mayor is seeking to return to the House of Commons after being selected as Labour’s candidate for the seat.
The Guardian reported that Burnham used the campaign launch to set out positions on housing, immigration, the economy and electoral reform. He said the by-election was not about returning to Westminster for its own sake, but about changing the direction of politics and reconnecting Labour with communities that had lost confidence in the party.
The by-election follows the resignation of Josh Simons, who stepped down as MP to allow Burnham to stand. The contest is expected to be closely watched because of Labour’s internal tensions and the challenge from Reform UK in a seat Labour has historically held.