Labour’s Andrew Gwynne resigns paving the way for return of Andy Burnham as an MP– UK politics live

PM declines to say whether he supports Burnham standing as Gwynne steps down

MP Andrew Gwynne, who was suspended from the Labour party last year over offensive WhatsApp messages, issued a statement on Thursday announcing that he will be vacating his seat, a move that will allow Andy Burnham a new route to Parliament.

Gwynne cites his health for why he has applied to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to seek the office of Crown Steward of the Manor of Northstead, a procedure that will allow him to step down.

“There will be a by-election soon and I wish my successor, whoever it is, all the very best in representing what I consider to be the best constituency in the UK,” Gwynne said.

More to come.