Andy Burnham is being positioned as the Labour Party's final opportunity to regain power, with some ministers admitting he represents the party's last hope. However, significant internal resistance from backbench Members of Parliament is anticipated, particularly concerning potential reforms to the benefits system.
Burnham's political journey is described as long and winding, marked by a significant shift from his early career as a staunch New Labour loyalist. In the early 1990s, while working for Tessa Jowell, a key figure in the Blairite movement, Burnham was an ardent supporter of the New Labour project, focused on appealing to middle-class southern constituencies to secure electoral victory. A former colleague recalled him as a "stormtrooper" for the cause.
His early career saw rapid promotions, securing the safe seat of Leigh in 2001 and subsequently holding positions such as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Culture Secretary, and Health Secretary. However, as Labour's time in government progressed, Burnham began to express unease with the party's direction. A notable turning point cited was the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster in 2009, where a public outcry for justice resonated deeply. This event, according to a former colleague, made Burnham realize that Labour's political strategy was failing the working people he grew up with, indicating that the "southern strategy" had run its course.
This evolving perspective was evident in recent statements where Burnham vowed not to emulate other parties by adopting too many policies perceived as Conservative. Despite criticism labeling him a "chameleon," allies maintain his commitment to transferring economic and political power to Labour's traditional heartlands is genuine. He is presented as someone who genuinely understands and intends to govern for working people.
Burnham's stance on issues such as immigration is seen by allies as needing to be robust, reflecting concerns within the working-class communities he represents. A close associate indicated Burnham is reassuring colleagues about his commitment, emphasizing his Wigan roots and understanding of how working people feel.
However, Burnham's proposed agenda faces potential opposition from within his own party, particularly from more metropolitan colleagues. The issue of welfare reform, specifically addressing the nation's debt through reforms to the significant benefits bill, is highlighted as a point of contention. One MP expressed doubt that the Parliamentary Labour Party would accept such measures, recalling their opposition to similar proposals under Keir Starmer. Burnham's allies assert he is prepared for these internal battles, describing him as a "hard" political operator who is resolute in his direction.
Burnham is credited with a stronger understanding and enjoyment of politics compared to his predecessor, Keir Starmer. He is described as a "political animal" who has been involved in the Labour movement his entire life. Furthermore, he has reportedly succeeded in boosting morale within the party, with MPs and activists finding renewed enthusiasm for campaigning.
The narrative suggests that Burnham's colleagues widely recognize him as Labour's final chance for electoral success. The urgency of the situation implies that internal party conflicts, or "fratricide," are less likely due to the perceived necessity for Burnham to succeed. As one minister reportedly stated, "Either Andy succeeds or Labour dies."