Andy Burnham joins leadership contest

By Tobias Benedetto

Former health secretary Andy Burnham today announced his desire to join the Labour leadership contest if he can secure the required 33 nominations from fellow Labour MPs.

He joins bookies’ favourite, former foreign minister David Miliband, his brother Ed Miliband, and Ed Balls in the race, with leftwing MP John McDonnell expected to be the fifth contender. Jon Cruddas pulled out on Monday.

Official lobbying for nominations begins on Monday, with the backing of 33 MPs required by the following Thursday’s deadline, although there are growing calls within the party for this to be extended. The new leader is expected to be announced in September.