Starmer Rejects Leadership Claims, Credits Burnham’s Steady Leadership

Keir Starmer has dismissed suggestions that Andy Burnham is positioning himself for a leadership bid, urging his party to avoid distractions and maintain unity.
Burnham’s reluctance to rule out future leadership ambitions revived speculation at a politically vulnerable time for Labour.
Starmer highlighted Burnham’s leadership following the Manchester synagogue attack, saying he relied heavily on the mayor’s insight and assessments.
He condemned leaks suggesting Wes Streeting wants the top job, arguing that such distractions hurt efforts to address rising living costs.
Burnham insisted he is focused on Manchester’s growth but declined to speculate about the long-term, leaving the door open to continued speculation.