Andy Burnham told to call general election by Labour advisers as Reform drop in polls

Middle East conflict and energy prices could be key to Labour’s election plans

A source claimed some Downing Street advisers and Labour MPs have been encouraged by the party’s reported two-point lead over Reform UK, with some privately considering whether that advantage could be converted into an electoral mandate.

However, an early contest is not thought to be imminent. Those involved in the discussions reportedly believe several conditions would need to fall into place first, including an easing of the conflict in the Middle East, lower energy costs and a series of popular government policies that could demonstrate clear progress.

The debate is also said to have been fuelled by concerns over the restrictions contained in Labour’s 2024 manifesto.

Commitments covering taxation, fiscal rules and Britain’s relationship with the European Union are reportedly seen by some figures as limiting the Government’s freedom to pursue certain policies.

Views on an early election are “diverse” within Government

One government source told the Telegraph that there are still policies that can be introduced within the manifesto’s “red lines”, but suggested these do not necessarily represent everything Andy Burnham would want to pursue.

“There are lots of things we can do within the red lines of the manifesto, but that is not the Prime Minister’s manifesto,” the source said.

“I am sure there are lots of things Andy would want to include in a manifesto that he wouldn’t be able to do at the minute.”

The idea remains contested within government, with one senior source describing the views on election timing as “diverse opinion across Government”. 

The source added that Labour would be “naive not to be contemplating all scenarios”.

The reported discussions come despite Burnham continuing to maintain that he has no plans to call an early election.