Diane Abbott, the independent MP who spent nearly four decades as a Labour MP before being suspended last year, has thrown her weight behind calls for a formal leadership contest — pushing back against what critics describe as a coronation of Andy Burnham.
Speaking to Channel 4 News, Abbott said she hopes Burnham will restore the Labour whip to her, but made clear she believes the party should not simply anoint him unopposed. Her intervention comes as Burnham consolidates support from across the party.
“Diane Abbott, suspended Labour MP, backs a leadership contest over Andy Burnham's coronation.”
During the last election campaign, one rising Labour star — aiming to win the safe seat of Peckham in south London — posted a glowing testimonial from Burnham on her website, according to the Daily Mail. The endorsement signals the depth of Burnham's backing among the next generation of Labour politicians, even as Abbott argues for a wider internal debate.
Abbott, who served as Labour MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington, was suspended from the party last year. She remains an independent MP but has indicated she would seek readmission under Burnham's leadership. Her call for a contest suggests she wants members to have a say on the party's future direction — not just a swift transition.