Keir Starmer has countered fresh rumours of a Labour leadership challenge, insisting Andy Burnham is doing an impressive job and calling for discipline within party ranks.
Burnham renewed speculation after sidestepping questions about whether he plans to seek the Labour leadership eventually. His comments arrive as the party confronts declining support and a highly anticipated budget.
Starmer, speaking while travelling to the G20 summit, noted that Burnham played an essential role providing updates during the synagogue attack. He emphasised their cooperative efforts.
He told MPs to stop circulating claims that Wes Streeting is plotting a coup, saying internal distractions impede progress on key issues like inflation and wages.
Burnham continued discussing Manchester’s £1bn growth project while indicating he has no current leadership plans. Still, his refusal to commit one way or another leaves room for political speculation.