Burnham has brought hope back to Labour – but he urnham has brought hope back to Labour – but he must understand how quickly it can be punctured understand how ... (opens in new tab)

The Makerfield MP’s surge towards No 10 is a seductive ad for the power of positive politics. How long that proves effective depends on his next movesThe creation of hope is a vital but risky part of democratic politics. Leaders or would-be leaders who arouse hope attract supporters, motivate activists, achieve momentum and win over voters – and then have a chance of holding together political parties, governments and societies in harder times. From to , to , leaders from across the left in p...