Richard Tice Declares Andy Burnham’s By-Election Bid a ‘Win-Win’ for Reform UK

Reform UK Deputy Leader Richard Tice has expressed his “delight” at Andy Burnham’s decision to contest the Makerfield by-election, calling it a “win-win” for Reform UK and vowing to “throw everything” at securing a victory.

Reform UK Ready for Battle in Makerfield

Richard Tice, Deputy Leader of Reform UK, has welcomed Andy Burnham’s confirmation of his bid to stand in the Makerfield by-election, telling GB News that Reform UK considers the move a strategic advantage. Mr Tice highlighted Reform UK’s strong showing in the last general election, where the party secured nearly 13,000 votes, while the Labour majority was only 6,000.

Mr Tice predicted an “exciting race” between Mr Burnham and Reform UK, emphasising the local connection of a Wigan candidate versus someone “parachuted in from Manchester.” He made it clear that Reform UK’s ambition is to see Andy Burnham “thrown out completely” from the parliamentary contest.

Burnham’s ‘Massive Gamble’

The Reform UK Deputy Leader also pointed out the significant personal risk for Mr Burnham, as he would be required to “resign as Mayor of Greater Manchester” to stand for Parliament. According to Mr Tice, this creates a double opportunity for Reform UK: to defeat Mr Burnham in the constituency and then potentially win the subsequent mayoral election. He told GB News that this makes the situation a “win-win” for his party.

Mr Tice characterised Mr Burnham’s decision as a “massive gamble” in what he described as a “strong, strong Reform seat.” He suggested this move indicates Mr Burnham’s perceived lack of broader popularity, stating, “What that tells you is he couldn’t find anything else, and that tells you how popular Andy Burnham really is.”

• Richard Tice declared Andy Burnham’s Makerfield bid a “win-win” for Reform UK, as reported by GB News.
• Reform UK secured nearly 13,000 votes in Makerfield at the last general election, against a 6,000 Labour majority.
• Mr Tice stated Reform UK would “throw everything” at the by-election to defeat Mr Burnham.
• Andy Burnham would need to resign as Mayor of Greater Manchester to stand for Parliament.
• Former Attorney General Sir Michael Ellis agreed the seat is “not a slam dunk” for Labour, according to GB News.

What This Means for Britain

This by-election signals a significant political battleground, highlighting Reform UK’s growing confidence in challenging traditional Labour strongholds in the North.

For ordinary working people, this contest represents a direct challenge to the established political order and an opportunity for a different voice in Parliament.

Andy Burnham’s decision to leave his mayoral post for a parliamentary seat underscores the high stakes involved and his ambition for national influence.

Should Reform UK perform strongly, it would send a clear message to the Labour government about the shifting political landscape and voter dissatisfaction.

The outcome will be closely watched as an indicator of public sentiment towards both the Labour government and the rising influence of Reform UK.

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This article is a factual summary of reporting by GB News. Full original story available on their website. All quotes directly attributed.

Source: GB News | Breaking Brexit News