MP says he will support Burnham

The MP for Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr, Steve Witherden, has publicly backed Andy Burnham in the Labour leadership contest, while delivering a sharp assessment of the party’s performance under former Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

In a statement, Witherden praised Labour’s record in government, highlighting measures including increases to the minimum wage and National Living Wage, workers’ rights reforms, renters’ rights legislation, rail and steel nationalisation plans, and the creation of a state-owned energy developer.

He said there had been “much to celebrate” since Labour entered government less than two years ago.

However, the Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr MP argued that the party had fallen short in several key areas, including tackling economic inequality, its stance on Gaza, and rebuilding trust with key voter groups.

“We have thus far failed as a party to radically rebalance the economy in favour of the working class, to stand decisively against the genocide in Gaza, or to pursue a foreign policy that reflects the reality of the United States turning its back on the free world,” he said.

Mr Witherden also acknowledged Labour had lost support among pensioners, farmers, disabled people and Welsh voters.

“We lost the trust of Welsh voters, too, and paved the way for nationalist parties to hold four fifths of the Senedd,” he said.

The comments come at a significant moment for Labour as the party considers its future direction following growing internal debate over its performance in government and electoral prospects in Wales ahead of the next Senedd election.

Explaining his support for Burnham, Mr Witherden said the Greater Manchester Mayor had demonstrated qualities he believed were lacking in Starmer’s leadership.

“Andy Burnham has shown he possesses what Keir Starmer lacked, namely the ability to inspire hope, to create a compelling narrative, and to overcome political obstacles,” he said.

“By winning in Makerfield as convincingly as he did, Andy has offered a blueprint for the party to replicate up and down the country. In that, he has my support.”

Despite backing a change in leadership, Mr Witherden sought to reassure constituents that his focus would remain on representing the area.

“My priority remains the same as on the day I was elected: to speak boldly for my constituents from the backbenches and do everything I can to ensure this Labour Government delivers for the people of Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr,” he said.