Former Royal Marine and Labour MP Al Carns has called on Prime Minister-in-waiting Andy Burnham to be 'bold and courageous' or risk letting down 'our people and our country.' In an exclusive interview with BirminghamLive at Cherry Reds pub in Birmingham city centre, Carns confirmed he will challenge Burnham for the leadership if his vision is not sufficiently ambitious.
Carns Sets Out His Stance
Carns, the MP for Selly Oak, resigned from Keir Starmer's government two weeks ago, paving the way for Starmer's resignation days later. He is now the only Labour MP openly considering a challenge against Burnham, who is widely expected to become the next leader after his by-election victory in Makerfield. 'I have not yet stood up to challenge him but nor have I ruled that out because we haven't seen the (Andy Burnham economic) plan yet,' Carns said. 'We expect to see that Monday or Tuesday. Then we will see.'
Pressure for a Debate
While other potential challengers like Wes Streeting have backed Burnham, Carns insists a debate is necessary. He believes many Labour MPs share his concerns about repeating past mistakes that could lead to 'an extreme government.' Carns stated: 'I speak to tons of MPs all the time...and they are all saying the same thing. They are all saying 'Makerfield was a huge success, Manchester was a success, we like Andy, he has charisma, he has passion, he has drive, but can we see and do we know what we stand for and what we are going to move forward with?' I think that's fair across the MPs. I am just standing up and saying it overtly and maybe a bit louder.'
Vision for the Country
Carns has outlined 'five tests' focusing on growth, investment, defence, youth employment, and welfare reform. He described Labour as 'chiselled out of the mines of north east England, hammered out of the shipyards of Govan and Liverpool, and forged in the factories of the industrial revolution.' He added: 'The problem now is that I think the deal with government has been broken. People are working really hard and they don't think the system is fair.'
Welfare and Migration
Carns supports welfare benefit cuts and tighter migration policies, noting the welfare bill is £233 billion a year and growing. 'It's not about punishing people who need help, it's about a system failing to help those people back up, back into work, giving them hands-up not hand-outs,' he said. He also called for radical changes to make the UK 'the healthiest nation in Europe' within ten years.
No Personal Ambition
When asked if his challenge was about seeking a position in Burnham's team, Carns denied it: 'I did not resign (as armed forces minister) to seek a reward or position. I am really enjoying being on the back benches.' He concluded: 'My legs aren't being blown off, I'm not being shot at, this is all right,' reflecting his calm demeanor despite the political turmoil.
