The retail workers' union Usdaw has formally endorsed Andy Burnham in the Labour leadership contest, following a unanimous decision by its National Executive Council.
The endorsement was agreed at the union's regular monthly NEC meeting in Newcastle, with Usdaw's governing body backing Burnham to succeed Keir Starmer as Labour leader.
Announcing the decision, Usdaw General Secretary Joanne Thomas said Burnham had demonstrated his electoral appeal during Labour's recent victory in Makerfield and was well placed to help rebuild support following disappointing results in May's local elections.
“Andy Burnham's exceptional victory in Makerfield proved that he has the ability to reach voters with a strong message of hope and defeat the divisive politics of hate.”
Joanne Thomas, Usdaw General Secretary
She argued that Burnham could help Labour deliver on its commitments in government while preparing the party for the next general election.
“Now that Keir Starmer has rightly set a timetable for his resignation, our NEC members believe Andy, as Labour leader and Prime Minister, can begin the Party's fightback from the dismal May election results, by delivering the change promised in 2024 and earning a second term in Government.”
Joanne Thomas, Usdaw General Secretary
The endorsement also included a tribute to Starmer's leadership, with Thomas praising his role in rebuilding Labour after the party's defeat in 2019 and leading it back into government.
“Keir Starmer has made an immense contribution to our movement and we will always be grateful to him for turning around the Labour Party, after its worst defeat in living memory, and securing a landslide victory in an election most said he couldn't win.”
Joanne Thomas, Usdaw General Secretary
Usdaw said it believes Burnham is the candidate best placed to deliver Labour's commitment to a "New Deal for Working People", alongside policies aimed at regional economic growth, job creation and investment in public services.
The union's backing represents a significant intervention in the contest, given Usdaw's position as one of the UK's largest trade unions. With around 370,000 members, the union primarily represents workers in retail, distribution and manufacturing, while also organising employees across a range of other sectors.
Trade union endorsements are expected to play an important role in the Labour leadership race, with unions remaining a key part of the party's electoral coalition and organisational structure.
Usdaw's decision adds to the growing list of organisations and Labour figures declaring their support for candidates as the contest to succeed Starmer gathers pace.
Further endorsements from MPs, affiliated organisations and trade unions are expected in the coming weeks as the party begins the process of choosing its next leader.
