Momentum Statement on the Gorton and Denton by-election

Momentum Co-Chairs said:

Losing the safe seat of Gorton and Denton could not be a bigger warning: it’s time for a change in direction.

This defeat could have been prevented if Andy Burnham had been allowed to stand, rather than being blocked by this authoritarian leadership.

Control-freakery, top-down politics and political timidity have left Labour without a coherent offer to the country. If things do not change – and quickly – hardworking Labour candidates up and down the country will be the ones to face the consequences in May.

Only a democratic Labour Party that listens to its members, MPs and trade unions can begin to develop the culture and ideas we need to reunite our voter base, and win.

27 Feburary 2026