Questions have been raised about the business and political relationships of former Greater Manchester mayor and Labour leadership contender Andy Burnham, focusing on property development projects and contracts awarded by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).
One set of allegations centres on Manchester property developer Daren Whitaker, whose companies were involved in major development projects supported by public funding. Critics claim that while Burnham chaired key finance committees, Whitaker-linked developments received substantial financial backing but failed to deliver agreed levels of affordable housing, instead prioritising luxury apartments and high-rise developments.
The claims further allege that Whitaker later received significant personal dividends before relocating to Monaco. Those making the allegations have questioned whether decisions relating to the developments were properly overseen and have called for the release of official meeting records and committee minutes.
A second area of scrutiny concerns Burnham’s wife, Marie-France van Heel, who has held senior positions within the energy and electric vehicle infrastructure sectors. Critics have highlighted her roles with Be.EV, Iduna Infrastructure and Octopus Energy, noting that organisations connected to those sectors have secured contracts relating to Greater Manchester’s transport and EV infrastructure programmes.
The allegations suggest a potential conflict of interest because of Burnham’s position within Greater Manchester local government.
The claims emerge as Burnham’s national political profile continues to grow, with supporters and legacy media annointing him as a potential future leader of the UK Labour Party and Prime Minister in the wake of Keir Starmer’s resignation earlier this week.
Neither Burnham nor the organisations named in the allegations have been found guilty of any wrongdoing at this point, and the claims remain matters of public and political debate.
ANDY BURNHAM: FRAUDSTER?
Mr Burnham didn’t Leave Manchester.
Mr Burnham FLED Manchester
There are Two Very Suspicious Arrangements Burnham is Involved in:
1/ His Dealings with his friend, the Manchester Property Developer, Daren Whitaker, who received nearly £800 Million… pic.twitter.com/BDa6OPnFct
— Pete Sanford (@PeteSanford) June 23, 2026
