Sir Keir Starmer has pledged to campaign for Andy Burnham in the Makerfield by-election on June 18, emphasizing the need for unity within the Labour movement. Burnham, currently the mayor of Greater Manchester, is seen as a potential challenger to Starmer's leadership amid ongoing speculation following Labour's disappointing performance in recent elections. Starmer urged the entire Labour movement to support the campaign, framing it as a critical contest against Reform UK and the Conservatives. He underscored the government's achievements, including a 0.6% growth in the UK’s real gross domestic product for the first quarter of 2023 and a drop in NHS waiting lists. Additionally, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced measures aimed at easing the cost of living, such as reducing VAT on summer attractions from 20% to 5% and introducing a £350 million fund for critical chemicals resilience. While Burnham's allies suggest he may delay a leadership bid if he returns to Westminster, the political landscape remains charged with expectations for change within Labour. The Green Party has also entered the race, nominating Chris Kennedy, who advocates for economic reform and a focus on local issues.