Andy Burnham
Mayor of Greater Manchester · 2017–
In one sentence
Regional Labour's voice against enforcement, for 'compassion' as policy.
Burnham has used the Greater Manchester bully pulpit to oppose Rwanda, demand a 'more humane' asylum system, and position himself as Labour's conscience when the national party briefly talks about control. In July 2026, as MPs voted on Labour's later Immigration and Asylum Bill, he was cited as backing the government measure — a bill that still refuses ECHR exit and still refuses a Rwanda-style deterrent. Locally he has argued against hotel use while rejecting the policies that would shrink the inflow.
We need an asylum system based on compassion and dignity, not gimmicks.
What they did
2022–2024
Against Rwanda
Consistent public opposition to third-country removal as Mayor, amplifying the Labour front bench.
2024–2026
Hotels vs inflows
Criticised hotel procurement in the North West while rejecting the deterrent architecture that would reduce arrivals.
How they voted
Blocked it / opened it means they voted against tighter rules, or for the Human Rights Act. Backed it means they voted for a tightening bill.
| Bill | What they did | Note |
|---|---|---|
HRA 1998 1998 | Opened it | Labour MP from 2001; later minister. |
Sources: GMCA statements; press on 2026 Immigration and Asylum Bill