Suspended MP quits.opening door for Burnham

Speculation rife on return of Manchester mayor

- BY ASHLEY COWBURN

SUSPENDED Labour MP Andrew Gwynne is standing down from the Commons paving the way for Andy Burnham's possible return.

Mr Gwynne was sacked as a minister and suspended from the Labour Party last year over offensive messages in a WhatsApp group.

Yesterday the MP for Gorton and Denton in Greater Manchester confirmed he will resign, mentioning "significant ill health".

It immediately triggered speculation that Mayor of Greater Manchester Mr Burnham could stand in the by-election to replace him.

Mr Burnham said he was "in the dark" over the MP's decision.