Burnham throws his hat in the ring for Gorton and Denton by-election.

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has asked permission from Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to stand in the Gorton and Denton by-election.

Burnham, who was previously MP for Leigh, Greater Manchester, between 2001 and 2017, insisted that he wanted to back government in Westminster, “not undermine it.”

The by-election was called this week following the resignation of former minister, Andrew Gwynne, who stood down on doctor’s advice after suffering “significant ill health.”

Burnham will have to receive the approval of the NEC if he is to stand for Labour in the by-election. Some members, including Deputy Leader Lucy Powell, have backed Burnham’s plan to return to Westminster, who described Greater Manchester’s mayor as “incredibly popular.”

Some members of the NEC are concerned that a potential return to Westminster for Burnham will result in an expensive early mayoral election in Greater Manchester, which could block the 56 year-olds chances of a return to the Commons.

If Burnham were to return to Parliament, this might put further pressure on current Prime Minister Kier Starmer. Burnham is seen as a popular member of the Labour Party, with YouGov stating he was the most liked politician within the party in September 2025. He has also stood for the leadership of the party twice, and could return to Westminster at a time in which the Prime Minister is under significant pressure.

According to Electoral Calculus, Labour are currently polling at 18.5%- behind both the Conservatives and Reform. With Starmer’s party facing unpopularity, some suggest Burnham could use this opportunity to enter No.10.

Other candidates rumoured to be entering the race in the Gorton and Denton by-election include former Labour MP George Galloway, and the Salford-born leader of the Green Party, Zack Polanski.

Burnham’s full statement was posted on X at 5pm Saturday:

This is a breaking news story and Shock News will continue to update you on the situation.