MU Assistant General Secretary Matt Wanstall (left) supporting Burnham (centre) at a Labour Unions campaign day. Photo: The MU.
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election with 55% of the vote, after a campaign based on positive change and making life affordable again.
In his victory speech, Burnham said, “Everyone knows that politics isn’t working. Everyone can feel the country isn’t where it should be. Tonight could, just could, be the turning point.
“From here on I will give everything I have got to make it so, to ensure the name Makerfield is forever synonymous with bringing about the change this country needs, bringing back something we’ve lost – hope.”
He also talked about Makerfield being a “touchstone,” pledging “A Makerfield test at the heart of British politics will ensure the places Westminster has neglected will now get fairness.”
Supporting the campaign in Makerfield
The Musicians’ Union was delighted to endorse Andy Burnham’s campaign in Makerfield, with MU Assistant General Secretary Matt Wanstall supporting the campaign in person at a Labour Unions campaign day.
It was one of several campaign days the group of 11 affiliated trade unions ran in support of the Burnham campaign.
Burnham has a long history with the Musicians’ Union, having worked closely with him in his time as Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, endorsed a previous leadership bid, and supported his campaigns to be Mayor of Greater Manchester.