Some ministers believe Sir Keir Starmer could step aside if Andy Burnham wins the Makerfield by-election to avoid a long leadership contest
But the Manchester mayor could be thwarted by former health secretary Wes Streeting, who announced he will run in a Labour leadership race on Saturday after resigning from Starmer’s Cabinet earlier this week. Streeting’s allies have claimed he has the 81 MPs needed to mount a challenge.
Socialist Labour MPs have also indicated they are likely to field a candidate of their own to broaden the debate, and a surprise contender such as foreign secretary Yvette Cooper could throw their hat into the ring.
However, Labour is split over the prospect of a drawn-out leadership contest, with many wanting to avoid chaos while others insist there must be a wide field of candidates.
Could there be a Burnham coronation?
