A by-election has officially been triggered in Makerfield after a Labour MP stepped down in order to make way for Andy Burnham's return to Parliament.
The writ was issued in the House of Commons today.
The Labour Party confirmed Andy Burnham, who currently serves as Greater Manchester Mayor, will contest the seat.
Labour MP Josh Simons announced his departure to provide his party colleague with an opportunity to re-enter Westminster.
Chief Whip of the House of Commons Jonathan Reynolds told the Commons: "I beg to move that Mr Speaker do issue his warrant to the Clerk of the Crown to make out a new writ for the electing of a member to serve in this present parliament for the borough constituency of Makerfield, in the room of Joshua Cameron Simons, who since his election for the said borough constituency has been appointed to the Office of Steward and Bailiff of His Majesty’s Three Chiltern Hundreds of Stoke, Desborough and Burnham in the county of Buckinghamshire."
Political parties have begun naming their representatives for what is expected to be a closely watched contest in the Greater Manchester constituency.
The contest is scheduled to take place on June 18.
Should Mr Burnham win the election, he would be obliged to give up his position as Mayor of Greater Manchester.
The writ was issued in the House of Commons today
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This requirement stems from the mayoral role incorporating responsibilities as Police Commissioner with authority over Greater Manchester Police.
Mr Burnham has held the Greater Manchester mayoralty since its creation, making him one of the most prominent metro mayor figures in England.
On Monday, Mr Burnham released a campaign video outlining his vision for the contest.
In the recording, he said his desire to "change Labour" was driving his attempt to secure the Makerfield seat.
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Labour MP Josh Simons announced his departure to allow Andy Burnham to stand
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Should Andy Burnham win the election, he would be obliged to give up his position as Mayor of Greater Manchester
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He continued: "Some say this by-election is unnecessary. I say it's the most consequential of our lives.
"I don't take anything for granted and I'm ready to accept the consequences of whatever choice people make."
Reform UK has selected Robert Kenyon to stand against Mr Burnham.
Councillor Kenyon represents the ward of Bryn with Ashton-in-Makerfield North, having been among the Reform representatives elected in the recent local elections.
Reform UK has selected Robert Kenyon to stand against Mr Burnham
|REFORM UK
The challenger works as a self-employed plumber and has previous experience as an army reservist.
His employment history also includes a period working as a specialist technician for the NHS in Lancashire.
This represents Mr Kenyon's second attempt at winning the parliamentary seat.
In the 2024 general election, he secured second position with 31.8 per cent of votes cast, whilst Labour claimed 45.2 per cent.
In announcing his selection, Reform UK described the contest as "David Vs Goliath".
The party contrasted Mr Burnham's circumstances with those of their candidate, saying: "Makerfield was Andy Burnham's backup plan. For Robert Kenyon, it's his home."