The Newshound

Burnham's advisers are pushing for an early 2027 election after poll shows Labour short of a majority

From the Newshound archive · first published 25 September 2026.

Burnham's advisers are pushing for an early 2027 election after poll shows Labour short of a majority

Senior figures in No 10 are reportedly urging Prime Minister Andy Burnham to call a snap election in spring next year, betting that a narrow window of opportunity exists before economic pressures worsen. A YouGov MRP poll of almost 17,000 people projects Labour as the biggest party on 241 seats — still 85 short of a majority. Burnham is set to address his first Labour conference as PM in Liverpool on Tuesday under the slogan "Hope Again". One senior government source warned he would be "naive not to be contemplating all scenarios."

The same poll puts the Conservatives and Reform UK together on just 253 seats, leaving both parties well behind, with Lib Dems on 71 and Greens on 9.

MoreThe TimesHope’s all very well but can the PM bring it home?Irish IndependentAndy Burnham’s advisers reported to be pushing for an early UK electionBBC NewsNew policies, election speculation: What to expect from Burnham's first Labour conference as PM
Read today's full feed at The Newshound →