Andy Burnham has been backed by 322 Labour MPs to be the next leader on the first day of nominations. The Makerfield MP is the only declared candidate in the race to replace Sir Keir Starmer and is on course for a coronation within weeks.

Nominations remain open until July 16, but Mr Burnham’s last possible rival Al Carns ruled himself out of the contest yesterday. Taking to X, this evening, the former Greater Manchester mayor said: "As the first day of nominations draws to a close, I am deeply grateful to the 322 Labour MPs who have put their trust in me and nominated me for Leader of the Labour Party.

"Their support comes from across the PLP and reflects a shared belief that Britain needs a new approach to politics.

"That is the circuit breaker I am offering: power out of Westminster, an economy rewired for ordinary people, and good growth in every postcode.

"I want to empower MPs to bring the experiences of their constituents into the heart of government, and harness the full breadth of our Labour movement, drawing on all its traditions and beliefs in pursuit of a common purpose.

"I want to thank every colleague who has nominated me for their commitment to that vision."

Mr Burnham said he had nominated himself as Labour MPs could be seen making their their way to the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) offices this morning to make their nominations, with several claiming to be the first.

Candidates need the backing of 81 MPs, which can include themselves, to get onto the ballot.

In the absence of any other candidates, Mr Burnham will be formally declared Labour leader at a special conference on July 17 and is expected to then become prime minister on July 20.

He will still take part in an online hustings with Labour MPs on Monday evening, even if he is the only one in the running.