Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleDavid Maddox & Millie CookeSaturday 27 June 2026 20:58 BSTRachel Reeves backs Andy Burnham as next PM despite cabinet speculationAndy Burnham is at the centre of a debate regarding whether he should call a general election if he becomes Labour leader and Prime Minister, with some arguing it is essential for a mandate.Many Labour MPs, including those on the hard left and with small majorities, are urging him not to call an early election, fearing substantial losses to Reform and the Greens.Recent polling indicates a significant boost in Labour's support with Burnham as a prospective leader, and he performs strongly against other party leaders in 'best prime minister' surveys.Conversely, an earlier MRP poll suggested Labour could face its worst result in over a century if an election were held, with Reform potentially securing a Commons majority.While Burnham's office has dismissed speculation of an early election, some allies suggest he should consider it if favourable polls emerge, to secure a stronger mandate for his agenda.In fullBurnham at centre of row over calling early election after Labour coronationThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in