Overview

• Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester, Andy Burnham said he has "never ruled out" returning to Westminster, reaffirmed his "full intention" to serve as mayor until 2028, and added that he could rethink "if events change."
• The Greater Manchester mayor has launched Mainstream, a campaigning vehicle for "radical realists," increasing his profile without declaring a leadership bid.
• Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said she would back Burnham "whatever he decides to do" and endorsed Lucy Powell for deputy leader after Powell criticised Keir Starmer's "unforced errors."
• Party rules require any challenger to secure around 80 PLP nominations and, because Burnham is not an MP, he would first need to return to the Commons, likely via a by‑election.
• Leadership speculation has been fuelled by poor polling for Labour — including one survey putting the party at 16% — and by unconfirmed reports of Angela Rayner allies exploring a comeback linked to Burnham.