Labour deputy leader says Burnham would have won Gorton and Denton by-election

In Brief

Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell says Andy Burnham likely would have won Gorton and Denton by-election.

Key Facts

• Labour fell to third place in the Gorton and Denton by-election held recently
• The Green Party won the seat, marking their fifth parliamentary seat
• Reform UK came second in the by-election
• Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell stated Andy Burnham would probably have won the by-election
• Powell called for Labour to make more use of Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham

What Happened

In the recent Gorton and Denton by-election, Labour lost a previously strong seat, finishing third behind the Green Party and Reform UK. The Greens won the seat, marking their fifth parliamentary seat. Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell commented that Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham would probably have won the by-election and urged the party to leverage his profile more effectively.

Why It Matters

The by-election result indicates shifting political dynamics in a traditionally Labour area, with the Greens gaining ground. Powell's remarks suggest Labour may consider greater involvement of regional figures like Burnham to strengthen electoral performance. This could influence Labour's strategy in future contests and its engagement with local leadership.