Former Defence Minister Al Carns has confirmed he will not seek the Labour leadership, endorsing Andy Burnham as the party's next leader.Carns stated that a leadership contest is 'not the best use of Labour's time' and urged unity behind Burnham.This decision leaves Burnham as the sole declared candidate for the Labour leadership following Sir Keir Starmer's resignation as prime minister.

The leadership election process will begin on Thursday, requiring 20% of MPs (81 votes) and support from three socialist societies/trade unions or 5% of constituency Labour parties (CLPs).If Burnham secures 323 nominations, no other candidate can enter the contest, allowing him to become leader by 17 July and prime minister by 20 July.

Carns initially hesitated to back Burnham without seeing his policy details but concluded he would 'make the right decisions and move the country forward' after discussions.Burnham's bid follows his recent by-election victory in Makerfield and his appointment as an MP, which coincided with Starmer's resignation.Wes Streeting, former health secretary, also supported Burnham after Starmer's exit.

Carns emphasized Burnham's effective leadership during crises like the Manchester Arena attack and praised his economic management of Manchester, suggesting this regional success could translate nationally.