Greens split over how hard to challenge Burnham in Makerfield byelection
The Greens are debating their strategy for the upcoming Makerfield byelection, particularly regarding how aggressively to challenge Andy Burnham. Some party members fear that a strong campaign could inadvertently aid Reform UK, while others argue for a more assertive approach to extract concessions from Labour. The decision on resource allocation will ultimately rest with the party's executive committee, with differing opinions on the best course of action.
- ▪The Greens are divided on how to approach the Makerfield byelection against Andy Burnham.
- ▪Some members believe a strong campaign could help Reform UK, while others want to push for concessions from Labour.
- ▪Caroline Lucas has called for the party to prioritize the country over party politics in this election.
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| Original publisher | The Guardian — Politics |
| Canonical URL | https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/may/18/greens-andy-burnham-makerfield-byelection-reform |
| Publication time | Mon, 18 May 2026 17:36:55 GMT |
| Retrieval time | 2026-05-18T17:44:56.690Z |
| Last seen | 2026-05-18T17:44:56.690Z |
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Andy Burnham has long supported proportional representation, an issue some Greens believe could be used to extract concessions from Labour. Photograph: Phil Noble/ReutersView image in fullscreenAndy Burnham has long supported proportional representation, an issue some Greens believe could be used to extract concessions from Labour. Photograph: Phil Noble/ReutersAndy BurnhamGreens split over how hard to challenge Burnham in Makerfield byelectionSome in party fear all-out campaign could boost Reform UK chancesPeter Walker Senior political correspondentMon 18 May 2026 13.36 EDTLast modified on Mon 18 May 2026 13.41 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe Greens are locked in an internal debate about how hard to challenge Andy Burnham in the Makerfield byelection, with some worried about…
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