British lawmaker Andy Burnham, the frontrunner to replace Keir Starmer as prime minister, said on Monday (June 22) there were many steps ahead when asked if he planned to call a general election.

When asked by a BBC journalist if he would call an election, which he could only do if he became leader of the Labour Party, Burnham said: "You're jumping several hurdles ahead there."

Starmer announced he was stepping down earlier on Monday.

Burnham, who was asked the question as he arrived in London from Manchester, is the only lawmaker to date to have confirmed he will enter the leadership contest, with nominations due in by mid-July.

DESCRIPCIÓN DE IMÁGENES

LABOUR LAWMAKER ANDY BURNHAM SPEAKING AFTER ARRIVING IN LONDON TO BE SWORN IN AS MP / AERIALS OF TRAIN ARRIVING AT EUSTON STATION

RESENDING WITH COMPLETE SCRIPT

SHOWS: LONDON, ENGLAND, UNITED KINGDOM (JUNE 22, 2026) (BBC - No use UK)

1. (SOUNDBITE) (English) LABOUR LAWMAKER, ANDY BURNHAM, SAYING:

"I made my statement, obviously, praising the Prime Minister's dedication, service and confirmed that I will put myself forward in the process that will soon be underway.

REPORTER: When Rishi Sunak did that and he became Prime Minister, you called for a general election. Would you be looking to do the same?

BURNHAM: I think you're jumping several hurdles out there. My priority today is to become sworn in as the mayor and as the MP for Makerfield, and it's been very kind of sad for me today to leave Greater Manchester. The people have been brilliant to me over the last few years. I've loved every minute of the role. I hope I leave Manchester in a better place, but thanks very much." / BURNHAM WALKING AWAY

2. (MUTE) AERIAL VIEW OF TRAIN CARRYING BURNHAM ARRIVING AT EUSTON STATION