Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has cautioned Andy Burnham against launching an immediate challenge for the Labour leadership should he win the Makerfield by-election and become a Member of Parliament. Starmer urged Burnham, and the party as a whole, to instead focus on the upcoming election for a new Greater Manchester mayor.

Burnham is widely anticipated to contest the party leadership if he secures a seat in Parliament following Thursday's by-election. Should he win, he would be required to resign his current position as Manchester mayor, triggering a by-election for that role, which is expected by August 6.

The Prime Minister indicated he would offer Burnham a cabinet position in a Labour government if he wins in Makerfield, suggesting he "will play a big part." Starmer framed the potential mayoral election as a significant event for the party, stating they "have to pull our sleeves up to make sure that there is another Labour victory."

Starmer's warning comes as Labour MP Wes Streeting has also indicated his readiness to initiate a leadership contest. Streeting, who resigned as health secretary last month, stated he delayed his challenge until after the Makerfield by-election to allow Burnham the opportunity to participate. He expressed a preference for the Prime Minister to decide his own future rather than forcing a contest.

Responding to Streeting's remarks, Starmer acknowledged "Westminster talk about what might happen in by-elections." He reiterated the immediate focus should be on the Manchester mayoralty by-election that would follow a Burnham victory, emphasizing the need for party unity and concentration on that upcoming electoral battle.

The Prime Minister's comments signal the likely argument he will present should Burnham successfully win the Makerfield seat. This intervention highlights the internal party dynamics and potential leadership aspirations within Labour as significant electoral events approach.

Sources suggest that the party is facing a period of uncertainty regarding its leadership. The potential for a leadership contest, coupled with the upcoming mayoral by-election, creates a complex political landscape for Labour.

Further analysis of the situation will depend on the outcome of the Makerfield by-election and the subsequent decisions made by key figures within the party, including Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting.