Andy Burnham was told to stick to local politics today amid claims he is plotting a return to Westminster to replace Sir Keir Starmer as Labour leader and Prime Minister.
Business Secretary Peter Kyle this morning bluntly suggested the Greater Manchester mayor stay in the North West, amid increasing speculation that he could contest a local seat if a Labour MP quits.
The former Labour minister could then return to Parliament in time for a leadership contest to succeed Sir Keir Starmer if the Peter Mandelson scandal proves to be the final straw for despairing Labour MPs.
Burnham is being aided by disgruntled leftie MPs in what one told the Sun on Sunday was being called 'The Etihad Coup' because so many Manchester City fans had been sacked in a recent reshuffle.
Mr Kyle told Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips that Mr Burnham, who has been dubbed 'the King In The North' was 'a real talent'.
