British PM says he "will stand" in any Labour leadership contest

Starmer congratulated Burnham on his by-election victory on 19 June.

The by-election in the Makerfield constituency in northern England was held on 18 June and was won by Burnham. He is now seen as a potential challenger to Starmer’s leadership amid reported discontent within the Labour Party’s left wing.

Following the result, former Transport Secretary Louise Haigh called on the Prime Minister to resign. More than 100 Labour MPs have also reportedly called for Starmer to step down.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and Energy Security Secretary Ed Miliband may resign from government and support Burnham.

To trigger a leadership contest, Burnham would need the backing of 20% of Labour MPs, equivalent to 81 members. Party members would then vote to choose a leader, who would become Prime Minister if Labour remains in government.

The political tensions follow local elections held on May 7, in which Labour lost control of the Welsh Parliament and suffered losses in English local authorities. Starmer has taken responsibility for the results but has rejected calls to resign as party leader or Prime Minister.