Burnham cements Labour leadership with backing of 349 MPs
Andy Burnham has secured enough support from Labour MPs to become the next leader of the party, effectively ending the leadership race. He is now on track to become Prime Minister on July 20, pending formal confirmation from affiliated unions.
Why it matters
This marks a significant shift in UK leadership, signaling a transition in the Labour Party's direction following the departure of Sir Keir Starmer.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google James Gregory Political reporter Getty Images Andy Burnham has effectively been confirmed as the new Labour leader with 349 of the party's MPs having now nominated him to replace Sir Keir Starmer.
After a second day of nominations, the MP for Makerfield received the support of a further 27 Labour MPs - putting him on track to become prime minister on 20 July, with it now mathematically impossible for a rival to run against him.
He still requires the backing of three organisations affiliated to the Labour Party, at least two of which must be trade unions, although this is expected to be a formality.
The former mayor of Greater Manchester fielded questions from Labour MPs as the only participant in an online hustings on Monday evening.
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