The return of Burnham?

[Shabby Russian]

Back to the matter in hand, whatever anyone thinks of Burnham, blocking him from running as an MP looks very weak and makes Starmer look more insecure, not less. It's concerning that decision-makers in the Labour Party couldn't see that.

I've no dog in this fight  and whilst I think there is some truth to what you say...I think the nec have come to the right decision (maybe for the wrong motivations).

It makes a mockery of democracy, if someone who is elected to a position of some importance does not complete the full term of their appointment. Resigning their position part way through their term of office  because they want to pursue a different option, is a snub to the electorate they are serving, and devalues that elected position.