Andy Burnham has not ruled out a possible return to Parliament amidst rumors linking him to a future leadership bid within the Labour Party. In an interview with the BBC, Burnham expressed his commitment to serving as Greater Manchester Mayor until May 2028 but remained uncertain about standing as a Member of Parliament if a seat in his area became vacant.

During a conversation with BBC Radio Manchester, the former Health Secretary under Gordon Brown acknowledged the political uncertainty in Westminster, stating that he has never closed the door on a potential return. While addressing reports of a leadership bid, Burnham emphasized that any decision to re-enter the spotlight would need to come from others rather than being self-initiated.

Regarding the possibility of participating in a by-election in Greater Manchester, Burnham maintained that it was a hypothetical scenario and emphasized a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances rather than rigidly sticking to one viewpoint. As a notable contender to succeed Keir Starmer if he steps down before the general election, Burnham faces scrutiny over recent political events, including the resignation of deputy PM Angela Rayner due to a stamp duty error and questions surrounding the appointment of Peter Mandelson as Ambassador to the US.

While considered a frontrunner in a leadership race, Burnham would need to regain a parliamentary seat to be eligible for candidacy. Other potential contenders include Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. Burnham has publicly supported Lucy Powell in the party’s deputy leadership race, who is competing against Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, viewed as the preferred candidate by Downing Street.

Powell, having been removed as leader of the House of Commons in Starmer’s recent reshuffle, dismissed suggestions of a proxy battle between Burnham and the Prime Minister, highlighting the importance of focusing on the candidates rather than reducing the contest to a gendered narrative.