Stroud MP Dr Simon Opher has welcomed Andy Burnham’s decisive by-election victory in North West England and expressed his support for Burnham’s campaign to lead the Labour Party following the resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Prime Minister Starmer announced his resignation in a televised statement on Monday after facing growing pressure from within the Parliamentary Labour Party. In his statement outside Downing Street, Mr Starmer said he had sought to create a fairer Britain but accepted that colleagues no longer believed he was the best person to lead the party into the next general election.
Following Andy Burnham’s by-election success, Dr Opher praised the result as a significant moment for progressive politics.
“Andy Burnham’s win is good for the country,” said Dr Opher. “It clearly demonstrates the appeal of progressive politics and the power of articulating a vision that offers people hope.”
Dr Opher said the result presents an opportunity to improve living standards, rebuild public services, strengthen democratic institutions, invest in communities and create a fairer and more secure society.
“We now have the chance to sustainably improve living standards, rebuild our public services, revitalise our democracy, invest in our communities and make our country a fairer and more secure place to live,” he said.
“We need affordable housing, an education system that works for all, and a health and care system that supports those who need it. The economy should work for everyone.”
Dr Opher acknowledged the challenges faced by Labour leaders seeking transformational change but said Burnham’s campaign had offered a compelling vision for the future.
“Every Labour leader faces entrenched interests that argue a fairer society cannot be achieved. Andy would be no different. But I believe we have seen a glimpse of the future. Working together, we can build a better society.”
The Labour Party’s National Executive Committee is expected to begin the leadership election process in July, with a new leader expected to be chosen before Parliament returns after the summer recess.
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