Keir Starmer has pushed back against leadership rumours, insisting Andy Burnham is doing a commendable job and telling Labour MPs to stop feeding speculation.
Burnham avoided ruling out future leadership ambitions in a series of interviews, prompting renewed internal chatter. His comments arrive as Labour prepares a major budget.
Starmer, speaking during his trip to Johannesburg, emphasised Burnham’s strong role in the aftermath of the Manchester synagogue attack. He praised his attention to detail.
He urged MPs not to circulate rumours about Wes Streeting, saying that speculation wastes time and undermines progress on the cost-of-living crisis.
Burnham continued promoting Manchester’s growth plan while refusing to predict his political future. His growing credibility keeps leadership questions alive.