Does Starmer have a northern problem?

Sep 26, 2025

Guest

Jennifer Williams

Guest

Stephen Bush

Guest

Miranda Green

In this discussion, guests Miranda Green, FT deputy opinion editor; Stephen Bush, FT politics columnist; and Jennifer Williams, FT northern correspondent, dissect Andy Burnham's recent media push for Labour leadership. They evaluate his bold economic proposals and what they mean for his political viability. The panel explores the potential impact of Burnham's ambitions on Sir Keir Starmer's position, as well as the significance of the upcoming party conference. Key themes include Burnham's balancing act and the future of the Northern Powerhouse.

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INSIGHT

Burnham's Leadership Signalling

Andy Burnham has been publicly positioning himself as a leadership alternative while highlighting Labour vulnerabilities.
His recent media run escalated focus on internal party tensions ahead of conference.

INSIGHT

Bond Market Comment Backfires

Burnham's bond-market comment was seen as a major tactical error that handed ammunition to Number 10.
The remark risks recalling the Liz Truss mini-budget market panic and undermines credibility.

ANECDOTE

Riding Two Political Horses

Jennifer Williams describes Burnham as 'riding two horses' between mayoral duties and national ambition.
She notes his emotional 2021 victory moment then immediately signalling openness to London opportunities.

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As the prime minister prepares for his annual party conference, the mayor for Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, seems to be mounting a thinly veiled bid for the Labour leadership. In numerous interviews given to the media this past week, Burnham said he had been privately urged by MPs to challenge Sir Keir Starmer. And the provocation came with what looked like a personal manifesto: tax increases on the wealthy, mass nationalisations and a promise not to be “in hock to the bond market”. So do Burnham’s economic policies stand up? Does the metro mayor pose a serious risk to the PM? Or does his pitch for the leadership actually help Starmer shore up support from within?

Host George Parker is joined by Miranda Green, Stephen Bush, and the FT’s northern correspondent Jennifer Williams, to discuss the multiple challenges Starmer is facing both inside and outside the Labour tent, as well as what else to look out for at the conference next week.

Follow George on Bluesky @georgewparker.bsky.social; Stephen @stephenkb.bsky.social; Miranda @greenmirandahere.bsky.social; Jen @jenwilliamsft.bsky.social

What did you think of this episode? Let us know at politicalfix@ft.com

Want more? Free links:

Andy Burnham launches thinly veiled bid to replace Keir Starmer

Andy Burnham’s borrowing plans would spook gilt market, investors warn

Starmer can’t afford to wait for reckless Reform to implode

Andy Burnham’s two-horse act faces a big jump

Plans for high-speed rail line in northern England suffer fresh delay

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If you want to know more about what's happening in UK politics you can read the FT’s live Q&A - where Stephen, Miranda and the FT’s UK chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley answered readers’ questions. Visit www.ft.com/ask-an-expert

Presented by George Parker, and produced by Lulu Smyth. The executive producer is Flo Phillips. Original music and mix by Breen Turner. The FT’s acting co-head of audio is Manuela Saragosa.

Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com

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