Analysis: Andy Burnham's route back to the Commons is clearer but one big hurdle remains The decision by Josh Simons, Labour MP for Makerfield, to stand down has opened up a path for Andy Burnham to run as a parliamentary candidate in the constituency.
This development is being hailed by some within the party as a "unity" move, designed to unite Labour's warring factions behind a single candidate.
However, it also raises important questions about the implications of this decision on the broader Labour Party and its chances of winning back power.