Burnham confirmed as Labour candidate in Makerfield

The Labour Party has officially confirmed Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham as its candidate to stand in the Makerfield by-election.

The poll was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, who stepped down to allow Burnham an opportunity to contest the seat – paving the way for a potential leadership challenge.

The former government minister has called on Labour to acknowledge that “the party has not been good enough”.

Burnham has been serving as Mayor of Greater Manchester since 2017.