Andy Burnham wins Makerfield: what happens now?

Andy Burnham wins Makerfield: what happens now?

June 19, 2026 · 33 min

About this episode

The episode discusses Andy Burnham's victory in Makerfield and its implications for Labour leadership and the political landscape.

Andy Burnham's victory in Makerfield makes him Labour leader and prime minister in waiting. How will the next days and weeks play out? Keir Starmer has said he will stand in a leadership contest if one is triggered. So does that mean a bloody contest rather than a coronation? In a special episode recorded live on Times Radio with Ed Vaizey, we go through the possible scenarios. And if Andy Burnham does become prime minister, what will he do with power? Who will be in his cabinet? We're told that Shabana Mahmood has turned down the offer of chancellor and will stay as home secretary. Is Ed Miliband still a likely candidate for chancellor? And what to do about Wes Streeting? We also look at the Conservative win in Aberdeen South. Is this a green shoot for the Conservative Party? And will the Makerfield result prompt some soul searching in Reform UK? Ed Vaizey, presenter, Times Radio Steven Swinford, political editor, The Times Lara Spirit, deputy political editor, The Sunday Times Producers: Harry Kitson, Erin Carney Executive producer: Molly Guinness Picture: Getty Images 00:00 - Intro: "They’re Going to Have to Drag Him Out" 00:20 - Welcome to The State of It: The Makerfield…

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