Tensions within the Labour Party surfaced on Thursday as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham openly rebuked former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair's recent critique of the party.

Blair had warned that Labour risked veering dangerously to the Left and criticised current policies on workers' rights, the minimum wage, and environmental commitments.

In response, Burnham argued that Blairism did not sufficiently break from Margaret Thatcher's economic legacy and stressed the importance of state intervention to promote regional growth.He highlighted Greater Manchester's economic success as evidence of a proactive approach rather than reliance on market forces alone.

Starmer, meanwhile, defended his administration's record, pointing to achievements in economic growth, public service investment, reduced NHS waiting lists, and immigration control.

Both leaders rejected Blair's view that current Labour policies were misdirected, signalling ongoing debates over the party’s ideological direction.

The disagreement follows Blair's publication of an extensive essay outlining concerns that the party has retreated into a Left-wing 'comfort zone', potentially undermining electoral prospects.

Other figures within Labour, including former health secretary Wes Streeting, echoed the need for policy discussions to address inequality and economic strategy.The interventions are expected to continue as Blair remains active in shaping the party's future dialogue.