Leadership Shift in the Labour Party
Westminster is experiencing a rapid shift in political power. Recent developments have significantly increased the likelihood of a new leader for the Labour Party. Sir Keir Starmer has announced a timeline for his departure, and a major potential rival, Wes Streeting, has publicly endorsed Andy Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester.
This sequence of events not only confirms Sir Keir's impending exit but also strongly suggests that Burnham is highly probable to succeed him, potentially in a very short timeframe. If this occurs, Burnham would become the UK's fifth Prime Minister in four years, marking a notable period of political change.
Reactions and Concerns Within the Party
The transfer of power was evident in scenes such as the new MP for Makerfield, Andy Burnham, being celebrated by hundreds of Labour MPs, contrasting with the emotional farewell of Sir Keir and his wife. Chancellor Rachel Reeves' presence at Burnham's event, notably absent from Sir Keir's resignation announcement at 11 Downing Street, further highlighted the changing allegiances.
While some senior figures hope to retain their government positions under a new leader, questions are arising about potential cabinet changes. Supporters of Rachel Reeves argue that her continuity at the Treasury would maintain market confidence. However, others suggest it is unlikely Burnham would keep her, given her close association with Sir Keir's administration. Speculation has also surfaced about Wes Streeting potentially replacing her, though he has denied being offered such a role by Burnham.
"And remember he's run for the Labour leadership twice before and lost," one minister pointed out to me, adding: "And not only that. He lost to two losers – Ed Miliband and Jeremy Corbyn."
The rapid ascent of Burnham, who was not a parliamentary candidate in the last general election and only became an MP recently, is causing some apprehension within the party. Concerns are being voiced about the perception of a leader who previously lost two Labour leadership contests to figures who subsequently lost general elections.
Burnham's Appeal and Unanswered Questions
Burnham's current appeal is largely attributed to his perceived success, particularly against Reform UK in areas where they performed well in recent English local elections. His decision to contest a challenging seat to return to Parliament is noted, though his popularity remains largely untested beyond Greater Manchester, where he is very well-regarded.
Some within the party express unease, feeling that many Labour MPs are backing Burnham without a clear understanding of his detailed vision for government. While he outlined some broad ideas during his by-election campaign, focusing on local concerns, there is a perceived lack of specific proposals on national issues like economic growth, the cost of living, public services, housing, and opportunities for the next generation.
This lack of detail and the potentially narrow timeframe to elaborate on his plans are causing jitters. Consequently, some Labour MPs are considering encouraging Darren Jones, the chief secretary to the prime minister, to challenge Burnham for the leadership. While friends suggest Jones is unlikely to run, he has not entirely ruled it out.
The next critical step will be when Burnham fully articulates his policy platform. As a former mayor, he has had limited public engagement on foreign affairs, for instance. However, if he becomes Prime Minister, he would face immediate and extensive scrutiny on such matters, including his approach to international relations, such as with a potential US President Donald Trump, and critical decisions on military funding and its financing.
Source: Chris Mason: Questions multiply for the man tipped to replace Starmer