Andy Burnham is in line to become Britain’s PM after gaining party support | Political Affairs

Burnham’s will cannot be opposed by his fellow MPs, as he is now supported by almost the entire parliamentary party.

Former Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnhamis expected to become the prime minister of Britain next week after receiving the support of more than 85 percent of MPs of the ruling Labor party.

Left-leaning Burnham received another 27 nominations on Monday afternoon, increasing the number of MPs backing him to become Labor leader and Prime Minister to 349.

Burnham’s bid to replace Keir Starmer cannot be opposed by the rest of the Labor MPs, as he would need the support of 20 per cent of the party, which is unlikely.

Burnham, who was a minister under former prime ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, was chosen ones MP for Makefield last month. He launched his campaign to return to Westminster after Labor suffered a landslide defeat in the local elections in May and confirmed that, if successful, he would seek to replace Starmer.

The outgoing prime minister announced his resignation last month after being heavily criticized by members of his own party.

He has been criticized for several scandals, and for failing to articulate a clear vision of the world. Despite winning a majority two years ago, the former lawyer has faced pressure to resign as Labor continues to poll.

Thousands of Labor members have left the party over the government’s handling of Israel’s deadly war on Gaza, which critics say has led Starmer and his cabinet to be complicit in the war.

Burnham has already sought to provoke anger over Labour’s poor response to Israel’s attack on Gaza. He he apologized last week because of the party’s actions, saying it “didn’t get it right” and promised to put pressure on Israel.

Burnham has given details of his plans, including a promise to give the regions outside London self-government and powers.

Critics have criticized current and previous governments for neglecting cities outside England, the UK’s wealthiest region.

Gareth Dale, a student at Brunel University who is majoring in politics, told Al Jazeera that Burnham has many challenges ahead.

“He faces a difficult task. Labor support has bled away. Under Jeremy Corbyn he won more votes than under Starmer in 2024, and since then he has lost some support to the Greens.