National Executive Committee (NEC)

The National Executive Committee (NEC) is the governing body of the Labour Party. It's in the news due to its recent decision to block Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, from seeking selection as the Labour candidate in the upcoming Gorton and Denton byelection. This decision has ignited a significant row within the party, with some seeing it as an attempt by Keir Starmer's allies to prevent Burnham from returning to Parliament and potentially challenging Starmer's leadership. The NEC's "officers' group" voted against allowing Burnham to compete, with only Lucy Powell, a Burnham ally, voting in favor. This event highlights internal divisions within the Labour Party and raises questions about Starmer's leadership and the potential for future challenges.