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MU Nominates Andy Burnham for Labour Leader

The Musicians' Union has officially nominated Andy Burnham to be the next leader of the Labour Party.

Published: 16 July 2026 | 3:26 PM
Government portrait of Andy Burnham.
The MU has already spoken to Andy Burnham and set out the priority areas where our members need to see urgent improvements. Photo: UK Parliament.

As an affiliated trade union since 1943, the MU's Executive Committee is entitled to have a say in the Labour leadership election process.

The MU is delighted to nominate Andy for the role. The Union has a long history of working with Andy, including during his stint as Culture Secretary, when he helped us negotiate copyright term extension from 50 to 70 years.

General Secretary Naomi Pohl, and Assistant General Secretary Phil Kear, have already spoken to Andy and set out the priority areas where our members need to see urgent improvements, including artificial intelligence (AI), music streaming, EU touring, and funding for the arts and for music education.

Working together to tackle the challenges facing musicians

As the only candidate, Andy Burnham is expected to become Prime Minister next week.

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl said: "Congratulations to Andy Burnham on his appointment as Leader of the Labour Party and Prime Minister.

"We know Andy is hugely passionate about music and on top of a lot of the issues facing our sector, from EU touring and the cost of domestic touring to arts funding and generative AI. We look forward to working with him and his team.

"I also want to pay tribute to Keir Starmer for his commitment to delivering for working people with the Employment Rights Act, repealing anti union laws, and for pushing forward the Hillsborough Law which we know was an important personal priority for him."

 

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A bag full of an assortment of musical instruments in a school classroom.

MU Addresses MPs on Music Education

The MU addressed MPs on music education, warning that stagnant funding, university course closures and worsening conditions for teachers are putting the future of music education at risk. The General Secretary also followed up on her meeting with Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Published: 15 June 2026

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