Andy Burnham says ‘climate of fear’ in Labour is shutting down debate

Greater Manchester mayor calls for change as he continues criticism of party under Starmer at conference fringe event

Andy Burnham has said there is a climate of fear in Labour and it needs to change, as he defended his actions in launching a debate" about the future of the party - seen by many as a challenge to Keir Starmer.

The Greater Manchester mayor has prompted outrage within No 10 and among cabinet ministers after he said last week that many MPs had urged him to run as Labour leader and questioned the government's economic approach.