Andy Burnham applies to stand for Labour in Gorton and Denton byelection

Greater Manchester mayor will need approval from party’s ruling body, which is dominated by Starmer allies

Andy Burnham has announced his intention to stand in the Gorton and Denton byelection in east Manchester, after months of speculation that he hoped to challenge prime minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership.

Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, had until 5pm on Saturday to declare his intention to run. He waited until the last moment to announce his plans to seek the candidacy as speculation over his decision reached fever pitch.