- Andy Burnham , the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has warned that the UK is veering towards the “polarised, poisonous politics” seen in the United States under the current Labour leadership.
- Mr Burnham, who harbours ambitions to return to Westminster, made these critical remarks about Keir Starmer’s leadership during a campaign speech for the Makerfield by-election , where he is a candidate.
- His comments follow recent remarks where he indicated he would not be “squeamish” about reducing the welfare bill to help fund defence spending, a stance emerging after resignations over delayed defence investment.
- Mr Burnham asserted that 'the world has changed' and it was 'obvious' the government would need to adjust its defence spending assumptions.
- The Makerfield by-election is scheduled for Thursday 18 June, and should Mr Burnham win, he may then set his sights on challenging Starmer for the Labour leadership.
IN FULL
