Former Dragons' Den star Duncan Bannatyne has withdrawn his support for Labour MP-hopeful Andy Burnham over the latter's views on transgender issues. The BBC star took to social media platform X to announce his decision, stating that while he initially backed the Manchester Mayor, he can no longer do so because he can never support anyone who advocates for trans women using single-sex spaces.
Bannatyne's Statement
Bannatyne wrote: 'Last week I decided to throw my support behind @AndyBurnhamGM for leadership of the Labour Party and on to PM. But I cannot do that now that I find out he says Transwomen. IE men. Should be allowed to use the ladies toilets. I can never support anyone that does this. Biological Women must have single sex spaces.'
Mr Burnham has previously questioned government guidance that states women's toilets can only be used by biological women. This stance has now cost him the backing of the millionaire entrepreneur.
Support for Rival Candidate
Bannatyne has now thrown his support behind another candidate in the Makerfield by-election, which Mr Burnham is hoping to win. The candidate is Rebecca Shepherd, who is standing for Restore Britain, a party founded just three months ago by former Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe.
Responding to a flyer promoting Shepherd, Bannatyne said: 'This might be a better candidate for Makerfield.' Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe responded: 'A local businesswoman, Rebecca, is our candidate. We'd love to have your support Duncan. She is very passionate about small business and rejuvenating our high streets. Just what Makerfield needs.'
Background
Andy Burnham is the Mayor of Greater Manchester and has been a prominent figure in the Labour Party. The Makerfield by-election is seen as a key test for his political future. Bannatyne's shift in support highlights the ongoing debate within the UK about transgender rights and single-sex spaces.
