Oldham MP backing Andy Burnham for PM after Starmer

Debbie Abrahams MP was speaking in the House of Commons on Wednesday <i>(Image: Parliament Live TV)</i>
Debbie Abrahams MP was speaking in the House of Commons on Wednesday (Image: Parliament Live TV)
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Oldham MP Debbie Abrahams is backing Andy Burnham to be the new Prime Minister following Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation yesterday.

In a statement posted to her social media pages, Ms Abrahams thanked Starmer for his two years in office.

She said: “Keir led Labour to a historic victory in 2024, and under his leadership this Labour Government has delivered a number of significant achievements.

“These include improvements in the economy and wages, the introduction of the Employment and Renters Rights Acts, improvements in the NHS and lifting 450,000 children out of poverty.

“His recent support of action to protect children from the harms of social media is also welcome.

“On the international stage, he has shown steadfast support for Ukraine and outstanding leadership charting a new course with NATO and Europe which will see us all benefit.

“These are changes he can be justifiably proud of. They will have a meaningful difference to people’s lives, now and in the future.”

Ms Abrahams described Starmer’s decision to step down as “a noble one, putting the country first.”

The representative for Oldham East and Saddleworth also spoke highly of newly-elected Ashton-in-Makerfield MP Andy Burnham, who has announced his candidacy for Labour leader.

She said: “I am also delighted to welcome my friend and colleague Andy Burnham back to Parliament.

“Andy has a proven record of leadership, public service and delivering for working people across the country.

“He has the experience, the vision and the values needed to lead our party and our country.

“Fundamentally his decency and ability to connect with people, will bring hope to us all.

“I have no hesitation in giving my full support to Andy in his bid to become Leader of the Labour Party and, ultimately, our next Prime Minister.”

A timeline for the election of a new Labour leader is yet to be announced.

So far, no other candidates have announced their intention to run for the position.

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