Two senior Labour figures have asserted that the party is united behind Andy Burnham as its prospective next leader. This comes after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's resignation earlier this week, which triggered a timeline for a leadership contest.

Despite the formal process being initiated, there is little visible support for any other contenders, leading some within the party to suggest a 'coronation' for Burnham rather than a full-blown contest. This sentiment was echoed by Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell and Housing Secretary Steve Reed.

Powell told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme that a single candidate would be "refreshing" and prevent potentially damaging internal divisions. She emphasized the need for the party to unite behind a new leader and cease "infighting and chitter chatter."

Reed concurred, stating the party's swift move to unite behind Burnham was "absolutely essential" to avoid turning "inwards." He highlighted the importance of focusing on the job ahead rather than internal party politics.

The discussion about a leadership contest also touched upon the possibility of a general election. While a general election is not mandated to replace a leader, it is often seen as a public test of their mandate. Powell, who had previously called for an election when Liz Truss was ousted, denied hypocrisy in not wanting one now, citing "very particular times" after Truss's economic policies and the public's desire for "change."

Reed also differentiated the current situation from previous leadership changes within the Conservative government, noting the Tories had changed leaders multiple times. He suggested the public wanted the new Labour leadership to "get on with the job."

However, Shadow housing secretary James Cleverly argued that a general election would delay crucial decisions, particularly concerning defence spending. He stated the Conservatives were ready for an election but that "a job of work needs to be done." Reform UK's Nigel Farage has called for an immediate election, but the Conservatives have not.

Powell indicated that if Burnham were to win the leadership, a priority for his administration would be the "further devolution of powers to local areas," an agenda item previously included in the party's manifesto.