Burnham allies confident of No 10 ‘coronation’ after surge in backers (opens original article in a new tab)

Andy Burnham's allies are confident of a potential leadership challenge against Keir Starmer following his byelection victory and growing MP support, with some MPs advocating for a contest to scrutinize his ideas.

• Andy Burnham's allies are confident of a smooth transfer of power after his byelection victory and increased MP support
• Burnham's team aims to secure 300 MP nominations to challenge Keir Starmer, complicating Wes Streeting's potential challenge
• Labour party rules require 20% of MPs (81) to force a leadership contest, with Starmer automatically on the ballot unless he steps down
• Some MPs want Burnham to face scrutiny of his ideas through a contest, while others prefer an uncontested takeover