Burnham accuses No 10 sources of lying about byelection decision | Andy Burnham

Burnham accuses No 10 sources of lying about byelection decision | Andy Burnham

January 28, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom News

A deepening rift within the Labour party centers on the upcoming byelection in Gorton and Denton, triggered by a dispute over the candidacy of Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. Burnham has publicly accused sources close to Downing Street of misrepresenting the circumstances surrounding his application to contest the seat.

Internal Disputes Escalate

The controversy began with suggestions, attributed to allies of Keir Starmer, that Burnham was explicitly discouraged from seeking the Labour nomination for the byelection. Burnham refuted these claims, stating via X (formerly Twitter) that the assertions were “simply untrue.” A subsequent message from ITV’s Robert Peston indicated a second source corroborated Burnham’s account, and that Burnham requested an urgent discussion with No 10 regarding the briefings.

Did You Know? The Labour party won the Gorton and Denton seat with just over 50% of the vote in 2024.

A spokesperson for No 10 denied that anyone associated with Starmer advised Burnham against applying to the National Executive Committee (NEC) or attempted to influence their decision. Burnham, in a follow-up interview with ITV News, stated he engaged in discussions with senior party figures over the weekend but received no indication his application would be rejected. He questioned the validity of the claims, noting the NEC’s supposed independence.

Calls for Unity Amidst Division

Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, who was the sole NEC member to support Burnham’s candidacy, appealed for an end to the internal briefings. Powell emphasized the need for a unified Labour front, stating the party’s objective is to “change the country.” She is urging constituents in Gorton and Denton, through a letter arriving on Wednesday, to support the Labour candidate and avoid a protest vote that could benefit Reform UK.

Reform UK Enters the Fray

The byelection is already shaping up to be a contested race. Reform UK has nominated Matthew Goodwin, a figure who has previously made controversial statements regarding the national identity of UK-born individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds. This choice drew criticism from Powell, who accused Reform of promoting “division, animosity and hatred.”

Expert Insight: The public dispute over Burnham’s candidacy and the selection of a controversial candidate by Reform UK highlight the potential for this byelection to become a focal point for broader political debates about identity and national unity.

Reform UK faced further embarrassment when Lee Anderson, one of their MPs, mistakenly posted a campaign photo from the neighboring constituency of Ashton-under-Lyne, prompting criticism from Angela Rayner.

Selection Process Underway

The Labour party is currently interviewing potential candidates, with a selection expected by Saturday. Bev Craig, the leader of Manchester city council, has ruled herself out, while Eamonn O’Brien, leader of Bury council, has reportedly applied for the nomination. The Green party is also preparing to contest the seat, believing they have a viable chance of success following Burnham’s exclusion from the race.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the byelection in Gorton and Denton?

The source does not state what prompted the byelection, only that it is occurring.

Who currently supports Andy Burnham’s bid to run in the byelection?

Lucy Powell, Labour’s deputy leader, was the only member of the NEC to support Burnham’s candidacy.

What is Reform UK’s strategy in the Gorton and Denton byelection?

Reform UK has nominated Matthew Goodwin and is campaigning in the constituency, though they experienced an early misstep with a campaign post in the wrong location.

As the selection process unfolds and campaigns gain momentum, what impact will internal Labour divisions have on the outcome of the Gorton and Denton byelection?