Labour MPs Urge Andy Burnham to Back Voting Reform

Labour MPs are moving to force Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to back voting reform within his first 100 days in office, should he become Prime Minister.

Burnham’s lead over Farage and Badenoch

The pressure arrives at a moment of profound public disillusionment. According to Ipsos polling, 76% of British adults are dissatisfied with Keir Starmer’s performance as Prime Minister—the lowest final rating for a PM at Ipsos before they left office since 1979.

Burnham has emerged as the public’s preferred successor. When asked to choose a leader, 30% of adults selected the Greater Manchester Mayor. That figure nearly doubles the support for Reform UK leader Nigel Farage at 16% and Kemi Badenoch at 13%.

Labour’s own standing is fragile. While voting intention rose four points to 24%, the party still trails Reform UK, which holds 26% support.

Distrust in opposition readiness

Personal popularity has not translated into institutional confidence. Only 21% of the public believe Reform UK is prepared to form a government, down from 29% in September. The Conservative Party fares worse, with just 19% of respondents viewing them as ready to take office.

Economic failure and the cost of living

The electorate remains focused on a domestic economy in crisis. Ipsos data shows 79% of the public rate the government’s handling of the cost of living as a bad job, while 72% rate its general economic management as a bad job.

The failures extend to public services and borders. 69% of respondents rate the government’s performance on immigration as a bad job, and 63% give the same failing grade to the management of the National Health Service.

The battle for voting reform

For the MPs demanding a pledge, the issue is structural.

Burnham has not yet formally responded to the demand for a 100-day reform timeline.