See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred SourceBy JAMES TAPSFIELD, UK POLITICAL EDITOR Published: 08:46 BST, 8 June 2026 | Updated: 08:52 BST, 8 June 2026
Keir Starmer is plotting a blizzard of activity before the crunch by-election as he braces for a challenge by Andy Burnham. Downing Street has been lining up 'legacy' policies to improve the PM's standing with Labour MPs, including an under-16s social media ban.The critical Makerfield contest is entering its final 10 days, with Mr Burnham boasting that his campaign is 'on course'. A poll last week suggested he is 10 points ahead of his Reform rival, although the outcome could rest on whether Right-wing voters split to back the Restore candidate. Attention at Westminster is already turning to what Mr Burnham would do after his victory.The Greater Manchester Mayor has made little secret of his intention to seek the Labour leadership, even though Sir Keir has been vowing to fight on. Keir Starmer is plotting a blizzard of activity before the crunch by-election as he braces for a challenge by Andy Burnham (pictured) Sir Keir made it known over the weekend that he is determined to take on any challenge to his positionHowever, there seems to be a divide among Mr Burnham's allies on the timing of any strike if he wins the by-election on June 18.Some are urging the former Cabinet minister to seize the initiative immediately, while others say he should wait until he is reestablished at Westminster.Sir Keir made it known over the weekend that he is determined to take on any challenge to his position.Even if a contest is triggered the PM would be able to stand without needing to get 80 nominations from MPs - although many doubt he would want to go through the process of hustings. Former health secretary Wes Streeting has also indicated he wants to be a candidate. In a video posted on social media last night, Mr Burnham said the 'warmth of reaction on the doorstep has been absolutely brilliant'.'I may be getting a battering in the media but the campaign is on course,' he said.'I'm fighting for every vote, I'm loving every minute.'A Survation poll released on Thursday showed Mr Burnham with 49 per cent support in Makerfield, ahead of Mr Kenyon on 39 per cent.
