Andy Burnham backs Brighton Labour candidates for election

Former culture minister and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham met with campaigners outside Brighton Town Hall ahead of their first cabinet meeting this afternoon.

Tom, Andy and Chris with Labour campaigners (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

He also backed Tom Gray and Chris Ward in their bids for the Brighton Pavilion and Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven seats respectively, the former a campaign which could see the Green Party ousted for the first time in 14 years.

The Labour party is pushing for greater devolution among local authorities such as in Brighton and Hove, meaning they can take control of services like public transport and rental industry controls.

Burnham proved popular among the city councillors (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Leader of Brighton and Hove City Council Bella Sankey said: "Andy Burnham has led the way in advancing change in Greater Manchester, bringing powers, decision-making and investment to that region. 

"With Keir Starmer’s commitment to devolve greater powers to local communities, like us here in Sussex, it was great to speak with Andy about the opportunities for our region that lie ahead."

Bella, Chris and Andy in Pool Valley (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven candidate Chris Ward added: "Brighton’s a great city, and if we’re to deliver the change we need here and across the South East, we need to push power out of Westminster and back into our communities.

"If elected, I’ll fight for greater devolution - and I know a Labour government led by Keir Starmer will deliver it.”

Andy Burnham and Bella Sankey in a bus stop near the Old Steine. Devolution could see the local authority take over the public transport network, as has been done in Manchester (Image: Andrew Gardner / The Argus)

Tom Gray and Andy Burnham have long been friends and Burnham praised his work on the campaign trail so far.

"I have no doubt he will serve Brighton Pavilion with the same passion, integrity, and effectiveness he has shown throughout his career." Mr Burnham said.

"Tom was up in Patcham on his hands and knees testing dirty water before Sian Berry had even bothered to set up a Brighton address.

"As the campaign enters its final stretch, voters need to know that Tom has the same passionate connection to this city that I have with Greater Manchester.  It’s in his blood.

"Brighton doesn’t need an MP sitting on the opposition benches with the Tories. It needs a strong local voice, accountable to the people, with a seat at the table in Government. But that will only happen if people vote for change on July 4."