Seven weeks ago, Angela Rayner was compelled to step down as the deputy leader of the Labour Party, setting off an unwanted internal contest within the party. The announcement of her successor will take place quietly at Labour’s headquarters this morning. Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary and chair of the National Executive Committee (NEC), will reveal the winner at 10 am.
Although there won’t be a grand members’ conference, the victor will have the opportunity to deliver a brief speech. Keir Starmer is also expected to offer congratulations. According to member polls, Lucy Powell, the MP for Manchester Central, who was dismissed from the Cabinet on the same day as Rayner, holds a significant lead over her opponent, Bridget Phillipson, the Education Secretary.
Phillipson’s campaign remains optimistic about a potential victory today, citing support from union affiliates. They are banking on a surprise win and emphasizing her accomplishments in government, such as championing initiatives like free school breakfasts and expanding free school meals. Despite being perceived as No10’s favored candidate, Phillipson’s team is determined to secure the win.
Powell’s opponents have dismissed the significance of the contest, questioning the relevance of the deputy leader role, particularly since David Lammy has already been appointed as Rayner’s successor as Deputy Prime Minister. However, a victory for Powell could send a strong message to Downing Street, signaling a need for change according to some MPs.
Powell has indicated that she can deliver tough messages to No10, aiming to prevent a recurrence of past policy mishaps. She advocates for a shift in direction after Labour’s challenging first year. Concerns have been raised within Downing Street about Powell potentially causing controversies with her statements.
Both candidates in the race agree on the urgency to eliminate the two-child benefit limit established during the Tory era. Phillipson has pledged to advocate for this cause at the Cabinet level, emphasizing the adverse impact it has on children living in poverty. Powell has echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of prioritizing this issue in the upcoming Budget.
Failure to address this policy in the next Budget may lead to public disagreements between Starmer and his newly elected deputy leader.