Andy Burnham has confirmed he will take part in the Labour leadership contest.
Burnham is set to be sworn in as an MP on Monday (June 22) just a matter of hours after Sir Keir Starmer announced plans to step down as prime minister.
The current Mayor of Greater Manchester secured his return to Parliament by winning the Makerfield by-election last week, taking 54.8% of the vote.
Following Starmer’s address on the steps of 10 Downing Street, Old Roan-born Burnham set out his intention to challenge for the UK’s top political position.
“Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication during such a challenging period.,” he wrote.
“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.
“The country expects stability, seriousness and a continued focus on the issues that matter most and that is what it will get.
“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.
“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.”
Burnham’s candidacy has already received support from one of his former rivals for the Labour leadership with Wes Streeting endorsing his new fellow parliamentarian.