UK may be ‘tipped into a general election’ if Burnham replaces Starmer, says Harman
Harriet Harman has expressed concerns that the UK could be pushed into a general election if Andy Burnham replaces Keir Starmer as prime minister. She believes Burnham may feel the need to secure his own mandate, especially if he faces accusations of being a 'usurper' from Nigel Farage. Harman emphasizes the importance of stability in politics and hopes for Burnham's success in the upcoming Makerfield byelection without triggering a leadership challenge or a general election.
- ▪Harriet Harman stated that the UK may be 'tipped into a general election' if Andy Burnham becomes prime minister.
- ▪She expressed that Burnham might seek a new mandate to avoid being labeled a 'usurper' by Nigel Farage.
- ▪Harman emphasized the need for stability in British politics and hopes for Burnham's success in the Makerfield byelection.
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Harman wants Burnham to win the Makerfield byelection, ‘but I don’t want a leadership challenge’. Photograph: Alicia Canter/The GuardianView image in fullscreenHarman wants Burnham to win the Makerfield byelection, ‘but I don’t want a leadership challenge’. Photograph: Alicia Canter/The GuardianHarriet HarmanUK may be ‘tipped into a general election’ if Burnham replaces Starmer, says HarmanFormer deputy Labour leader says Nigel Farage could say Manchester mayor is a ‘usurper’ and he may seek his own mandate UK politics live – latest updates Ella CreamerTue 26 May 2026 09.36 EDTLast modified on Tue 26 May 2026 09.41 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleThe UK may find itself “tipped into a general election” if Andy Burnham replaces Keir Starmer as prime minister, Labour’s former deputy…
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