CARNS BACKS BURNHAM FOR LEADERSHIP – Former defence minister rules out leadership bid and urges Labour to unite behind Andy Burnham

Former Defence Minister Al Carns has ruled out standing for the Labour leadership, throwing his support behind Andy Burnham and strengthening the former Greater Manchester mayor’s path to Number 10.

Carns said a leadership contest would not be in the party’s best interests, adding that after speaking with Burnham he was confident he would “make the right decisions” and move the country forward. He praised Burnham’s record in Greater Manchester.

The announcement leaves Burnham as the only Labour MP to have formally declared his candidacy following Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation. The leadership contest officially opens today, with candidates required to secure the backing of at least 20 per cent of Labour MPs, as well as support from affiliated trade unions or constituency parties.

If no rival secures enough nominations, Burnham could be confirmed as Labour leader by 17 July before becoming Britain’s next prime minister just days later.