Labour’s shadow home secretary Andy Burnham is considering standing to be mayor of Greater Manchester in 2017.

Mr Burnham, who has been MP for Leigh since 2001, has been approached about standing for the new position once it is created next year.

He could well face opposition from a number of fronts, with both Labour MP for Bury South Ivan Lewis and interim Greater Manchester mayor Tony Lloyd both bidding to be Labour’s candidate for the role.

Mr Burnham’s spokesperson said: ‘Approaches have been made to Andy Burnham to give consideration to this role.

‘It is early days and no decision has been taken. Whatever the decision, he will continue to serve the leader of the party and stay in the shadow cabinet.’

Manchester City Council leader Sir Richard Leese ealier this year ruled himself out of running for mayor, despite widespread speclation that he would stand for the position.