By GB News (Politics) | Created at 2026-06-22 15:26:32 | Updated at 2026-06-22 17:28:26
2 hours ago
Andy Burnham has left the door open to calling a snap general election as he arrived in the capital to be sworn in as the member of Parliament for Makerfield.
Mr Burnham, who officially became an MP this afternoon, previously called for a snap general election back in 2022 - when Liz Truss abruptly resigned as Prime Minister in a similar fashion to Keir Starmer's resignation just this morning.
Mr Burnham had posted #GeneralElectionNow on X, then Twitter, when Rishi Sunak succeeded Ms Truss without going to the country for a vote.
Arriving at London Euston from Manchester at around 1.30pm this afternoon, Mr Burnham failed to rule out the prospect of a snap election when questioned by reporters.
He said: "I think you’re jumping several hurdles there. My priority today is to be sworn in as the MP for Makerfield, and it’s been very kind of sad for me today to leave Greater Manchester."
"The people have been brilliant to me over the past few years. I’ve loved every minute of the role. I hope I leave Manchester in a better place. But thanks very much indeed."
His comments come after Sir Keir Starmer announced his exit outside Downing Street this morning, with a leadership contest now on the cards for July.
A new Prime Minister is set to be installed by September 1 when Parliament returns from recess - although Mr Burnham could take the top job by July 16 if no other contender emerges.
Andy Burnham himself called for a general election when Rishi Sunak succeeded Liz Truss in 2022
PA
If he takes the keys to No10, the "King of the North" will have the power to call a snap election by asking the King to dissolve parliament.
Labour rivals Nigel Farage and Kemi Badenoch have today called for a snap general election, citing the importance of giving the nation a vote, and showing distrust in Mr Burnham's ability to change trajectory.
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