Corbyn criticises ‘strange’ lack of policy in leadership debate and says Burnham must offer real change – as it happened

<p>This blog is now closed, you can read more on this story <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jun/20/burnham-allies-confident-no-10-coronation-after-surge-backers-labour-leadership">here</a></p><p><strong>A losing streak? Makerfield shows mounting dangers for Nigel Farage</strong></p><p>From Restore and tactical voting to questions over that £5m gift, the Reform leader faces challenges on several fronts, writes senior political correspondent <strong>Peter Walker.</strong></p><p>As those around <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/nigel-farage">Nigel Farage</a> are fond of pointing out, Reform UK has now led in more than 300 consecutive national polls. When it comes to byelections, though, it is fair to say the party’s results are more mixed.</p><p>Yes, Robert Kenyon <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jun/19/andy-burnham-wins-makerfield-byelection-paving-way-labour-leadership-challenge">came second in Makerfield</a> to a popular regional mayor backed by a Labour campaign so relentless that the main risk <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jun/18/up-to-3000-labour-activists-expected-in-makerfield-campaign-andy-burnham-byelection">was annoying voters</a> by knocking too often on their doors. Kenyon also increased his and Reform’s share of the vote from the 2024 general election.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2026/jun/20/keir-starmer-andy-burnham-labour-leadership-makerfield-byelection-uk-politics-latest-news">Continue reading...</a>