Andy Burnham edges closer to coronation as leadership rivals struggle to garner support (opens original article in a new tab)

Andy Burnham's leadership bid for the Labour Party is advancing as potential rivals fail to gain sufficient support, increasing the likelihood of him becoming prime minister without a formal contest by 17 July.

• Andy Burnham's leadership bid gains momentum as rivals struggle to secure support from Labour MPs.
• Burnham is likely to become prime minister by 17 July without a formal contest.
• The outgoing prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, is facilitating an orderly transition and will publish the Defence Investment Plan before leaving office.
• Burnham's team may revise policies if he becomes prime minister, while some MPs oppose his unchallenged ascent.