Khan: Burnham Entitled to Raise PM Concerns, Not Commenting on Leadership

London Mayor Sadiq Khan said Andy Burnham is raising legitimate concerns about Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership and is entitled to speak up. Khan declined to comment on whether Burnham intends to return to Westminster. Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has voiced criticisms of Downing Street in recent interviews and outlined a vision to turn the country around ahead of Labour's conference next week.

Labour observers have been watching for signals about leadership ambitions as Burnham keeps his name in circulation while Labour prepares for the party's annual gathering. A spokesman for Burnham framed his remarks as part of a broad policy discussion rather than a bid to unsettle the leadership, and a Khan aide stressed that Burnham's right to raise issues should be respected. Khan also emphasized that Starmer remains the prime minister elected by the country and is working in Britain’s interests, noting the day-to-day realities of governing and the broader leadership dynamics. A close aide to Khan pointed out that there are about 400 Labour MPs, so a minority may be unhappy with the leadership, a situation he said is not unusual in large parties ahead of a conference.

The London mayor's remarks come the day after Sir Keir supported Burnham in the latest chapter of his row with U.S. President Donald Trump. Burnham has accused Downing Street of creating a climate of fear among MPs and has laid out a plan for how to turn the country around, framing the argument in terms of governance and strategy rather than personal ambition.

Beyond the leadership debate, Labour faces a tumultuous political moment as conference season approaches. The party has endured a bruising stretch in which notable departures—Angela Rayner and Lord Mandelson—from government roles have coincided with polls that have lagged behind Reform in some surveys. Those developments have sparked questions about Labour's trajectory ahead of the next general election. Starmer has repeatedly said he will lead from the front into the election, urging unity and discipline as the party seeks to present a coherent platform to voters.

Asked about his own political future, Khan said he has no intention of pursuing another elected role and will remain focused on his duties as mayor. The conference next week will be closely watched for signals about Labour's strategic direction, leadership questions, and how the party plans to respond to public concerns as it positions itself for government.