Labour MP 'standing down' could clear way for Andy Burnham's Commons return
Andrew Gwynne is standing down as the MP for Denton and Gorton
Last updated 22nd Jan 2026
A suspended Labour MP is standing down - potentially clearing the way for Keir Starmer leadership rival Andy Burnham to run for Parliament.
Andrew Gwynne, who was sacked as a minister and suspended from the Labour Party last year over offensive messages in a WhatsApp group, is now standing down, which would trigger a by-election in Greater Manchester.
Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is said to be seeking a Commons comeback to challenge the Prime Minister's position.
Mr Burnham, who has served as mayor of the region since 2017, has argued for a Westminster revamp and hit out at the current system of governing.
He has repeatedly refused to rule out challenging for the leadership of the Labour Party.
Sir Keir has previously dismissed talk of leadership challenges as "wasted" time.
Mr Burnham refused to rule out whether he would stand as a candidate, but told the Local Democracy Reporting Service:
"It's not been confirmed to me. I've had no contact on this issue with Andrew or anyone close to him. I know him of old of course but I'm as in the dark about this as anyone.
"People shouldn't rush to conclusions. I have been very focused on my role as Mayor of Greater Manchester and I think the reindustrialisation plan I put out this week shows that."
Responding to the reports, Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the Greater Manchester Mayor is someone he is "proud to work with".
Mr Streeting said: "Andrew Gwynne was a member of my team in opposition and in government. I'm aware he's had some very serious health challenges.
"If indeed there is going to be a by-election, we need to make sure we've got a strong candidate, that we fight really hard to win that by-election, and we need our best candidates to come forward.
"As to who that is, whether or not Andy will throw his hat into the ring, is for Andy to consider, and ultimately for party members to decide. But we need strong candidates.
"I'll just say about Andy, having just seen him just earlier this week, whether it's in government nationally, or whether it's leading the city and the region locally, he makes a massive impact and makes a really big difference. He's someone I'm proud to work with."
Last year, an extraordinary Labour briefing war over suggestions Mr Streeting was plotting to mount a coup focused fresh attention on Sir Keir's position.
Mr Gwynne comfortably won his seat in the North West at the 2024 general election with a 50% share of the vote.
His nearest rival was Reform UK's Lee Moffitt with 14%, but national polling suggests it could be a closer contest in a by-election.
Mr Gwynne has been contacted for comment.