The Labour Party is facing a challenge from Reform UK in an upcoming by-election, with Labour officials characterizing Reform’s politics as divisive. The contest was triggered by the resignation of Andrew Gwynne, who stepped down last week for health reasons.
Reform UK Candidate Selected
Reform UK has selected Matt Goodwin, an academic-turned-political campaigner, as its candidate in the forthcoming by-election. A Labour spokesperson criticized Goodwin’s selection, stating his candidacy represents “the politics of division, of toxic division, of tearing people apart.”
Burnham Blocked from Standing
Meanwhile, a 10-member panel of Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) blocked the candidacy of Andy Burnham, citing the “disproportionate” cost to the party of contesting the mayoral election to replace him. Burnham refuted reports that Downing Street had informed him he would be prevented from standing, stating he had conversations with people in No 10 throughout the weekend.
Sir Keir Starmer was among eight NEC members who voted to bar Burnham, who some view as a potential rival for party leadership should he enter Parliament. Approximately 50 Labour MPs subsequently signed a letter urging the NEC to “re-evaluate” its decision.
Previous Election Results
In the 2024 general election, Labour won Gorton and Denton with a 13,000-vote majority. Reform UK secured second place with 5,000 votes, narrowly surpassing the Green Party.
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