Makerfield by-election result live: Burnham hails win as ‘turning point’ as path opens to chall

Andy Burnham wins Makerfield by-election. Burnham's landslide victory over Reform UK has significant implications for the Labour party and its current leader, Sir Keir Starmer. The former Greater Manchester mayor's win has been described as a "turning point" for Labour, and many are speculating that he will challenge Starmer for the party leadership.

Burnham's victory speech emphasized the need for change within the party, stating that "everyone knows that politics isn't working" and that the country "isn't where it should be." His comments have been interpreted as a direct challenge to Starmer's leadership, and many Labour MPs are rumored to be backing Burnham as a potential replacement.

The by-election result has also dealt a blow to Nigel Farage's Reform UK, which had been performing well in recent local elections. Despite this, Reform UK's candidate, Rob Kenyon, won 34.5% of the vote, representing the party's second-best performance at a Westminster by-election to date.

The consequences of Burnham's win are far-reaching, with many predicting that it will lead to a leadership challenge within the Labour party. Sir Keir Starmer has congratulated Burnham on his victory but has insisted that he has no intention of stepping down as leader. However, with Burnham's allies calling for him to take over as leader, it remains to be seen how long Starmer can maintain his position.

Leading polling expert Lord Robert Haywood has stated that it is now "inevitable" that Andy Burnham will replace Keir Starmer as PM, citing the "sheer scale" of Burnham's victory. Haywood believes that many Labour MPs in the North and Midlands will back Burnham, who they see as a potential savior for their seats.

Independent MP Karl Turner has also weighed in on the situation, calling for a "coronation" for Andy Burnham as Labour leader. Turner, who has been suspended from the Labour party over his criticism of Starmer's plans to reform the right to a jury trial, has been promised a return to the party ranks by Burnham.

As the Labour party navigates this uncertain period, one thing is clear: the result of the Makerfield by-election has significant implications for the future of the party and its leadership. With Burnham's win, the path has been opened for a potential challenge to Starmer's leadership, and it remains to be seen how the party will respond to this new development.

In the coming weeks and months, the Labour party will be watching with bated breath as the situation unfolds. Will Starmer be able to maintain his position as leader, or will Burnham's victory mark the beginning of a new era for the party? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the result of the Makerfield by-election has sent shockwaves through the Labour party, and its consequences will be felt for a long time to come.

The Makerfield by-election has also highlighted the current state of British politics, with many voters feeling disillusioned with the current system. Burnham's victory has been seen as a beacon of hope for those looking for change, and his message of reform and renewal has resonated with many.

As the country looks to the future, it is clear that the Labour party will play a significant role in shaping the political landscape. With Burnham's win, the party has been given a new lease on life, and it is up to its leaders to capitalize on this momentum. Whether Starmer can maintain his position as leader or Burnham will take over remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Labour party will be a force to be reckoned with in the coming years.

In conclusion, the result of the Makerfield by-election has marked a significant turning point for the Labour party. With Burnham's victory, the party has been given a new sense of purpose, and its leaders must now navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As the party looks to the future, it is clear that the consequences of this by-election will be felt for a long time to come.