Labour MPs Rally for Starmer in Upcoming By-Election
- A by-election is to be held in the Gorton and Denton constituency, triggering a debate within the Labor party regarding the selection of its candidate.
- The possibility of Andy Burnham standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election has sparked controversy, with some Labour figures arguing against any attempt to prevent his candidacy.
- Several Labour MPs have voiced concerns that the candidate selection process could be unduly influenced by the party leadership in London, rather then reflecting the wishes of local...
Gorton and Denton By-Election
Table of Contents
A by-election is to be held in the Gorton and Denton constituency, triggering a debate within the Labor party regarding the selection of its candidate. The dispute centers on potential restrictions on who can stand, specifically concerning former Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham.
Andy Burnham’s Potential Candidacy
The possibility of Andy Burnham standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election has sparked controversy, with some Labour figures arguing against any attempt to prevent his candidacy. Gemma Bolton, a constituency members’ representative on Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC), stated that blocking Burnham would be “outrageous” and “show a real weakness” in Keir Starmer’s leadership. BBC News reported on this disagreement on January 23, 2024.
Concerns Over a “London Stitch-Up”
Several Labour MPs have voiced concerns that the candidate selection process could be unduly influenced by the party leadership in London, rather then reflecting the wishes of local members. Jo White, chair of the Red Wall group of Labour MPs, called for the north to decide its own candidate, warning that a “London stitch-up will be a disaster for Labour.” BBC News reported this statement on january 23, 2024.
Calls for an Open Selection
Multiple Labour MPs are advocating for an open selection process, allowing all eligible candidates to compete for the nomination.Connor Naismith, MP for Crewe and Nantwich, stated that Gorton and Denton “deserves the best possible choice of candidates” and that limiting the choice would be “wrong.” He also emphasized the importance of focusing on delivering for the public rather than internal party matters. BBC News reported this on January 23, 2024.
National Executive Committee (NEC) Involvement
The Labour Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) is central to the candidate selection process.A member of the NEC confirmed to the BBC’s Newsnight program that they agreed with the parliamentarians advocating for an open selection.The NEC is responsible for overseeing the party’s rules and procedures, including those related to candidate selection. Labour Party – National Executive Committee provides details on the NEC’s role.
Latest verified Status (as of January 24, 2026): As of January 24, 2026, there have been no further confirmed developments regarding the Labour Party’s candidate selection process for the Gorton and Denton by-election beyond the reports from January 23, 2024, as detailed by the BBC. the dispute remains ongoing.