What is Burnham's path to becoming Labour leader and PM?

A significant story is unfolding on the international scene. What is Burnham's path to becoming Labour leader and PM? 51 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleRichard Wheeler ,Political reporter,andDuncan WalkerPA MediaSir Keir Starmer (left) and Andy BurnhamAndy Burnham is expected to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership after winning the Makerfield by-election. Sir Keir has said he plans to fight any challenge and, if he wins, he would continue as prime minister.

However, if he loses, the winner would replace him in Downing Street without the need for a general election. Starmer remains defiant as leadership challenge inches closerAre the Downing Street dominoes about to fall? Why is Sir Keir's leadership under challenge?

The Details

Labour performed badly in May's local elections, losing almost 1,500 councillors in England, while the party lost power in Wales and recorded its worst ever result for the Scottish Parliament. More than 90 Labour MPs have publicly urged the PM to resign immediately or draw up an exit timetable. However, more than 150 MPs have either indicated support for Sir Keir or say it is not the right time for a leadership contest.

Discontent towards Sir Keir's leadership had been mounting before the elections, including over his decision to change direction on three major policies in a month after pressure from within his own party. Sir Keir's decision to appoint Lord Mandelson as British ambassador to the US also led to questions about his judgement and the wider Downing Street operation. Lord Mandelson was sacked after new information came to light about the depth of his relationship with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

How Rayner, Streeting and Burnham weakened PM in 12 hours of political dramaWhich Labour MPs have come out against Starmer? How would a leadership challenge work and who could stand? MPs unhappy with Sir Keir remaining in post could try to force a leadership election.

What Experts Say

This would require 20% of the party's MPs to back a replacement candidate. There are 403 Labour MPs, so the support of 81 would be needed. Once a Labour leadership election is triggered, other candidates could join the contest if they also had 81 backers.

Sir Keir would not be required to gather support as he would be automatically on the ballot paper if he chose to contest the leadership election. He would continue as prime minister during any contest. No Labour prime minister has ever faced a formal leadership challenge from their MPs.

How does the vote to choose a Labour leader work? Party members and affiliated trade union supporters vote by ranking the candidates in order of preference – putting a one next to their favourite, two for their second choice and so on. If one candidate receives more than 50% of first preferences then they will be declared the winner.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.