Congressman Andy Burnham said today that Britain needs fundamental change, from its economy and the immigration system to education and industry, after winning an election to fill a parliamentary seat and in anticipation of an expected confrontation for leadership against Prime Minister Kir Starmer.
Bernham secured his return to parliament with victory over populist Reform UK in an electoral battle in the Maykerfield constituency – a key first step in any attempt to remove Starmer.
"This is our last chance to change, but we will take advantage of it...We will take this opportunity and draw a new course for Britain," Bernham told supporters in a rally on the occasion of his victory, without referring directly to whether - or when - he will make a move to start a leadership showdown in order to take Starmer's place.
🚨 WATCH: Andy Burnham outlines his vision for Britain during his Makerfield victory rally:
- End "trickle-down" economics
- End the "unfair" simulation system
- Push reindustriaration
- Public protection to use British business
- Work places for all 16–18-year-olds pic.twitter. com/awSZvYgoaa— Politics UK (@PolitlcsUK) June 19, 2026
Burnham said he wants, among other things, an economy that works for all and called for the reindustrialisation of northern England. He also called for changes in the education system in order for all young people to have opportunities and said he wants to respond to voters' concerns about the "unfairness of the immigration system".
Burnham said voters at Makerfield "told us what they want. Now we will do it.".