Labour should win next election under Burnham after work already done, Starmer says
Prime minister holds no ‘personal animosity’ toward likely successor and stresses he has a platform to build onKeir Starmer has said Labour “should go on to win the next election”
By The Guardian
Labour should win the next election under Andy Burnham because of the work Keir Starmer has already accomplished, the outgoing Prime Minister has stated in his first interview since announcing his resignation. Starmer expressed no personal animosity toward Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester who is widely expected to succeed him, and pledged to do everything possible to ensure the next government flourishes.
In a candid conversation with the BBC, Starmer acknowledged that accepting the end of his political career was “really tough,” yet he remained clear about the foundation he has built for Labour’s future. He cautioned that Burnham will need to devote as much attention to international challenges as he has during his tenure at Number 10, highlighting the persistent demands of foreign affairs that will shape the incoming administration.
While Starmer referred to “whoever my successor is” and noted there remains “a little bit of process to go,” he made no secret of his belief that Burnham is the likely candidate. Starmer listed several achievements he considers central to his leadership, including economic stability, public service reforms, and strengthened international alliances.
He insisted these accomplishments provide a solid platform for Burnham to build upon and argued they justify Labour’s confidence in winning the next general election. The Prime Minister also clarified that any past mockery of Burnham was “just joking,” and he now likes him personally, reinforcing the absence of any lingering resentment.
Burnham, meanwhile, has ruled out holding an early general election, indicating he intends to focus on governing before seeking a fresh mandate. He has said he has yet to choose his chancellor and is calling for a complete rethink of certain policies, suggesting a willingness to adapt Starmer’s agenda while introducing his own priorities.
Despite these differences, Starmer’s message remains one of unity and continuity, urging Labour MPs and the public to trust in the work already done. The political landscape in the UK is shifting as the Conservative Party, led by Kemi Badenoch, launches pointed attacks on Burnham, accusing him of avoiding scrutiny as he closes in on power.
Badenoch’s criticism underscores the intensity of the coming election battle, but Starmer’s endorsement of Burnham aims to solidify Labour’s internal cohesion. By stressing his lack of animosity and affirming Burnham’s readiness, Starmer seeks to prevent factionalism and present a unified front ahead of the next electoral contest.
Starmer’s interview also touched on the broader responsibilities of the Prime Minister, particularly in managing global crises and maintaining diplomatic relationships. He emphasized that Burnham must be prepared to navigate these complexities with the same dedication he has shown, noting that foreign affairs will remain a critical component of the role.
This warning reflects Starmer’s own experience and his desire to ensure his successor is fully equipped for the challenges ahead. As the process of selecting Labour’s next leader continues, the party faces the task of balancing continuity with innovation.
Starmer’s achievements provide a strong base, but Burnham’s proposed policy shifts suggest a desire to evolve Labour’s approach. The Prime Minister’s confidence in Burnham’s ability to win the next election signals his belief that Labour’s current direction is sound, even as new leadership takes the helm.
The public reaction to Starmer’s resignation and his support for Burnham has been mixed, with some praising his honesty and others questioning the timing of his departure. However, his clear message of no animosity and his commitment to Labour’s future have helped ease concerns about potential division within the party.
By focusing on the work already done and the platform available for the next government, Starmer aims to leave a legacy of stability and forward momentum. As Burnham prepares to assume the role of Prime Minister, the focus will shift to how he implements his vision while respecting the foundations laid by Starmer.
The outgoing Prime Minister’s assurance that Labour should win the next election under Burnham underscores his confidence in the party’s trajectory and his belief that the work he has done will resonate with voters. With an early election ruled out and a clear path forward, Labour appears poised to consolidate its position and challenge the Conservatives in the coming years.
The coming months will be critical for Burnham as he navigates the transition, selects his key ministers, and defines his policy agenda. Starmer’s endorsement and his emphasis on the absence of personal animosity provide a strong foundation for this process, helping to ensure a smooth and unified leadership change.
As the political landscape evolves, Starmer’s message remains clear: Labour’s future is secure, and the next election should be won under Burnham’s leadership.