Starmer Allies Accuse Burnham of ‘Taking Potshots’ as PM Fights to Control Narrative

Senior Labour figures close to Prime Minister Keir Starmer are openly accusing Mayor Andy Burnham of “taking potshots” at the government from his protected regional position, highlighting the deep animosity now defining the relationship. Starmer is battling to control a damaging narrative of division.
The internal tension was dramatically amplified by Burnham’s repeated failure in interviews to definitively rule out a future leadership bid, giving the impression that he is deliberately undermining the sitting Prime Minister. This noncommittal stance is viewed by Starmer’s camp as an unhelpful and disloyal act of political opportunism.
Starmer, addressing the media en route to the G20 summit, sought to neutralise Burnham’s criticism by offering public praise. He emphasized their close co-operation, highlighting the “really impressive” leadership Burnham displayed during the community response to the Manchester synagogue attack.
However, the Prime Minister also launched a fierce attack on those spreading internal rumors, specifically dismissing claims that Health Secretary Wes Streeting was plotting a coup. Starmer stressed that these internal feuds distract from the critical work needed to address the nation’s severe cost-of-living challenges.
Meanwhile, Burnham continues to build his platform, promoting his substantial £1 billion Manchester growth plan. By focusing on successful local policy, he ensures that his “potshots”—whether on economic policy or social issues—carry weight and provide a compelling alternative vision for the party’s future.