Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has confirmed he will put himself forward as part of the process to choose Labour's next leader following Keir Starmer's decision to step down.
Burnham said the transition must be handled in an orderly and responsible way while maintaining focus on the issues affecting people across the country.
In a statement issued following Sir Keir Starmer's resignation statement in Downing Street, Mr Burnham thanked the outgoing Labour leader for his service and leadership during what he described as a challenging period.
Burnham said he would seek to play a role in the party's next chapter and stressed the importance of stability during the leadership transition.
He said, "Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication during such a challenging period."
Referring to the leadership process, he said, "His decision marks the beginning of a transition and it is important that this process is conducted in an orderly and responsible way. I will put myself forward as part of this process."
Mr Burnham said the public expected political leaders to remain focused on key national issues throughout the contest.
He said, "The country expects stability, seriousness and a continued focus on the issues that matter most and that is what it will get."
The Greater Manchester Mayor also highlighted economic growth, the cost of living, public services, housing and opportunities for younger people as priorities that should remain at the centre of government and party decision making.
He said, "As we move forward, our priority must be to work together to get the country back to where we all want it to be. People want to see progress on economic growth, cost of living, public services, housing and opportunities for the next generation. Political change should never distract from the responsibility to improve people's lives."
Looking ahead, Mr Burnham said Labour should approach the coming period with confidence and unity.
He said, "The Labour movement has always been at its strongest when it looks forward with confidence and purpose. This is what we will do from here and we will make sure this transition is a positive process of renewal for our party and our country."
Former cabinet minister Wes Streeting has backed Mr Burnham's bid, describing him as the candidate best placed to unite the party and take on political opponents across the country, despite chatter that he was going to run against the former Mayor of Greater Manchester.
The Labour MP said Labour's recent Makerfield by election success showed the party could still win support if it embraced change and renewal.
Mr Streeting credited Mr Burnham with playing a key role in that result and said the Greater Manchester Mayor had demonstrated how Labour could remain connected to voters.
He said, "Andy has shown what Labour can be when we are inclusive, united, and in touch with the lives of the people this Party was founded to represent."
Streeting said discussions with Burnham had convinced him there was space within a future Burnham leadership for a broad range of ideas and political traditions.
He added, "Having spoken at length with Andy in recent days, I'm convinced that there is a place for those ideas under his leadership; that he is committed to building an inclusive party that draws on the best of our political traditions; and that he can win the fight of our lives against the forces of nationalism."
Wes Streeting concluded by urging party members and supporters to unite behind Mr Burnham's campaign.
Parklife’s new Panorama Stage is winning over festival goers at Heaton Park
How many of Parklife’s biggest Sunday artists do you know
St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Heywood opens new library after community fundraising effort
In Photos as Parklife opens with packed crowds, surprise appearances and sunshine at Heaton Park
Aitch sparks huge reaction with surprise Parklife appearance with fellow artist Bou
Skepta draws huge crowd with standout Parklife performance
Coachella inspired fashion takes centre stage at Parklife
Sammy Virji keeps Parklife moving as thousands pack The Valley stage
Geraldine Coggins announced as Green Party candidate for Mayor
How much a drink costs at Parklife 2026 from water to cocktails
🟥 LIVE as Thousands head to Heaton Park as Parklife 2026 gets under way
Road closures confirmed around Heaton Park for Parklife weekend
