Burnham chooses football over politics
By Ian Dunt
Labour leadership contender Andy Burnham has chosen football over politics when asked if he’d rather play in the FA cup or become prime minister.
The shadow health secretary was asked during an interview with Labour uncut which he would choose between playing for Everton in the FA Cup final or becoming the next Labour prime minister.
He later retracted his answer after being encouraged by his campaign manager, but the incident will cement the notion that Mr Burnham is, along with Diane Abbott, the most ‘human’ of the contenders for the Labour leadership.
Ms Abbott recently branded her opponents “geeky young men in suits”, while David Cameron said the contest resembled a Star trek convention.
Read the full exchange below
Questioner. (from Jackie): If you had the choice between playing for Everton in an FA cup final, or become the next Labour Prime Minister which would you chose?
Andy Burnham. (after exactly two seconds) Everton, FA Cup final.
press secretary: (howls) No!
Q. That is a bold statement!
press secretary: I’m going to kill him.
Q. She is going to strangle you when I leave.
press secretary: I am.
Campaign manager Kevin: Can you re-answer that one please Andy.
A. Well it’s a different choice isn’t it! That [playing in the FA Cup final] is like a one-off thing isn’t it!
Q. (to press secretary) I don’t think that’s the worst answer you know.
A. (to press secretary) Yeah.
Q. Ok then, next..
A. Yeah, next!
Campaign manager Kevin: No you really need to re-answer that one.
A. Ok. Labour prime minister.
