LONDON, June 23. /Dunyo IA/. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has become the leading candidate for the leadership of the Labour Party and the post of UK Prime Minister following Keir Starmer’s resignation, reports Dunyo IA correspondent, citing The Guardian.

Keir Starmer has reportedly confirmed plans to leave office in the coming weeks after two years in power. His decision comes amid declining government approval ratings and growing pressure within the party.

Andy Burnham, who previously held ministerial roles in the UK government, was recently elected to the House of Commons in a by-election. He has openly expressed his intention to run for Labour leadership.

His position has reportedly strengthened further after former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, previously considered his main rival, expressed his support for Andy Burnham’s candidacy.

Under party rules, leadership nominations are expected to open on July 9 and close a week later. If Andy Burnham remains the sole candidate, he could assume the premiership by July 17. If a contest is held, Labour Party is expected to select its new leader before Parliament reconvenes after the summer recess on September 1.

The 55-year-old Andy Burnham is widely known for his tenure as Mayor of Greater Manchester, where he oversaw major regional development projects. He promotes an approach he calls “Manchesterism,” which he hopes to extend nationwide. He has also served as Health Secretary, Culture, Media and Sport Secretary, and Chief Secretary to the Treasury.

Many Labour Party members believe Andy Burnham’s communication skills and public appeal could help restore voter support. However, some MPs note that his positions on key issues, including economic policy, remain insufficiently detailed.

He is expected to outline key elements of his economic programme next week.

The report comes as Labour faces declining popularity, with some voters shifting toward the Green Party, while the Reform UK party led by Nigel Farage is gaining support in national polls.