Labour Leadership Race Intensifies as MPs Seek to Avoid Burnham Coronation

Senior Labour MPs are considering launching leadership bids to prevent Andy Burnham from becoming prime minister without a formal contest, following the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer. Former defence minister Al Carns has indicated he is weighing a run, while Sir Keir's Chief Secretary, Darren Jones, has also not ruled out a challenge, according to multiple sources. Burnham, who won a decisive by-election victory in Makerfield last week and was formally sworn in as an MP on Monday, is the only official candidate so far and could be named leader as early as July 17, after nominations close on July 16. However, many Labour MPs are uncomfortable with the prospect of a "coronation," arguing that Burnham's policy ideas have not been tested in a leadership race. John Slinger, the Labour MP for Rugby, stated that it is "necessary" to subject candidates to normal scrutiny. Carns, who resigned as armed forces minister earlier this month over defence spending, said he is focused on developing an updated political program that is "bold and courageous." Burnham is expected to give a speech next week promising to grow the economy while adhering to the government's fiscal rules, which aim to restrict borrowing and cover day-to-day spending with tax revenues. His allies have said no decisions have been made about cabinet positions. Outside the party, opposition leaders criticized the situation, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch attacking Labour policies, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey accusing the party of an "endless merry-go-round of prime ministers," and Reform leader Nigel Farage demanding a general election. The leadership contest will open with nominations on July 9, and candidates must secure the support of at least 81 Labour MPs. The winner will become prime minister before Parliament returns from summer recess on September 1, amid a broader political crisis following Labour's poor performance in May local elections.