Andy Burnham’s victory may change Labour’s politics, but not Britain’s business direction

Regulations exert a powerful influence over 10 Downing Street

    • Burnham’s victory in the Makerfield parlimentary by-election was significant not simply because he won, but also because of how he won.
    • Burnham’s victory in the Makerfield parlimentary by-election was significant not simply because he won, but also because of how he won. PHOTO: REUTERS
    Published Tue, Jun 23, 2026 · 11:31 AM

    THE victory of Andy Burnham in the Makerfield parliamentary by-election has settled one question in British politics while opening another. 

    The first is whether the now former Greater Manchester mayor has demonstrated enough electorally to be able to replace Keir Starmer as prime minister. The second is what a Burnham-led government would mean for business, investors and heavily regulated sectors.

    The answer to the latter is less dramatic than many assume.