Senior Labour figures have stated that the party is united behind Andy Burnham as its next leader, following Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's resignation earlier this week. Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell and Housing Secretary Steve Reed both claimed that Labour MPs are backing a coronation of Burnham, rather than a contest.
Powell told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme that a coronation would be 'refreshing' and allow the party to 'get on with the job and deliver the change they want to see'. Reed also stated that the party would 'move very swiftly to uniting behind Andy Burnham' without 'turning inwards', which he described as 'absolutely essential'.
While a general election is not necessary to replace a prime minister, calling one is seen as a test of a new prime minister's support among the public. However, Powell denied that it was hypocritical that she did not want a general election to test a new Labour leader, stating that the circumstances were 'very particular' following Liz Truss's resignation in 2022.
Burnham is expected to give a closely watched speech in Manchester on Monday to outline his economic vision for the country, which will have a strong emphasis on devolution to drive growth. This could be key to winning over potential challengers such as Al Carns, who has indicated that a speech on Monday will decide whether he challenges Burnham for the Labour leadership.
The Conservatives have not called for a general election, but Reform UK's Nigel Farage has. Shadow housing secretary James Cleverly stated that a general election would delay key decisions, particularly on defence spending.
Powell also stated that further devolution of powers to local areas would be a priority for Burnham's administration if he won the Labour leadership race. This includes devolving control over skills and local transportation to better connect people to new job opportunities.