Andy Burnham has officially been chosen as the Labour candidate for the crucial Makerfield by-election following approval from the party’s governing body, the National Executive Committee (NEC), on Tuesday. This decision comes after the NEC gave the green light for the Greater Manchester Mayor to enter the race last week.

Burnham, who may challenge Keir Starmer for leadership if successful, emphasized the significance of the Makerfield by-election, calling it “the most consequential of our lives.” The by-election, expected to occur on June 18, was triggered by the resignation of former minister Josh Simons, paving the way for Burnham’s return to Westminster.

Earlier in February, Starmer and the NEC had blocked Burnham’s attempt to stand for Parliament in Gorton and Denton. However, amidst internal party strife, the Prime Minister withdrew his opposition to Burnham’s candidacy last week, leaving Burnham as the clear Labour choice.

Reform UK also announced their candidate for the election, plumber Robert Kenyon, who previously ran for the party in the 2024 general election.