Andy Burnham was sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Makerfield on Wednesday, following his victory in a byelection in the constituency. The ceremony in the House of Commons was met with a mix of cheers and heckles from fellow MPs.
Heckles and Cheers in the Chamber
As Burnham took the oath, Conservative MP Desmond Swayne shouted 'Rome is saved', while other MPs yelled 'saviour' and 'turning water into water'. The outbursts drew laughter and applause from the chamber, reflecting the high political drama surrounding Burnham's return to Westminster.
The swearing-in came just hours after Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced he would be resigning, paving the way for a Labour leadership contest. Burnham subsequently confirmed he would stand as a candidate to become Labour leader.
Burnham's Political Comeback
Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, won the Makerfield byelection with a significant majority, securing his return to national politics. His victory is seen as a springboard for his leadership ambitions, with many Labour MPs already backing his candidacy.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting publicly endorsed Burnham, stating he has the experience and vision to lead the party. 'Andy is the right person to take Labour forward and become our next prime minister,' Streeting said.
Starmer's Resignation
Keir Starmer's decision to step down as prime minister came two years after his historic election victory. In a statement, Starmer cited personal reasons and a desire to spend more time with his family. His resignation has triggered a leadership contest within the Labour Party, with Burnham emerging as an early frontrunner.
The Labour Party is now preparing for a leadership election, with candidates expected to formally declare in the coming days. Burnham's swearing-in marks the beginning of a new chapter in his political career, as he aims to lead the party he once served as a senior minister under Gordon Brown.
