Historian says Labour sees duty to block Reform UK rise

In a recent interview with France 24’s Sharon Gaffney, Martin Farr, senior lecturer in contemporary British history at Newcastle University, said that Labour Party members and MPs view it as their duty to block the ascent of the right‑wing populist Reform UK. According to Farr, this perceived responsibility has driven internal discussions about a leadership change, with the party reportedly considering the replacement of current leader Keir Starmer by former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham.

The proposed shift, which would see Burnham potentially installed at 10 Downing Street, is presented by party insiders as a strategic move to consolidate centre‑left support and diminish Reform UK’s electoral prospects. Labour officials have not confirmed any formal decision, and the party’s next steps remain subject to internal deliberation and upcoming parliamentary procedures.