Overview

• Speaking on BBC Radio Manchester, Andy Burnham said his full intention is to serve until 2028 but he could rethink if events change.
• He reiterated he has never ruled out going back to Westminster and indicated any leadership move would need to come from others.
• Pressed on fighting a Greater Manchester by-election to return to the Commons, he called it a hypothetical question.
• Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said she would support him whatever he decides and backed his ally Lucy Powell in the deputy leadership race.
• The launch of his Mainstream group and Labour’s recent turmoil and weak polling have fueled talk of alternatives, though no formal challenge has been mounted.