Seven weeks ago, Angela Rayner stepped down as the deputy leader of the Labour Party, sparking an unwanted internal contest within the party.
The new deputy leader will be announced today at a subdued event at Labour’s headquarters. Shabana Mahmood, the chair of the party’s governing body – the National Executive Committee (NEC), will reveal the winner at 10am.
Although there will be no elaborate celebration or special members’ conference, the victor will have the opportunity to deliver a brief speech. Keir Starmer is also expected to offer congratulatory comments.
According to member polls, Lucy Powell, the MP for Manchester Central, who was dismissed from the Cabinet on the same day as Rayner, is poised to be crowned as the new deputy leader. Powell currently holds a significant lead over her competitor, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson.
Phillipson’s campaign remains optimistic about a potential victory, citing support from union affiliates and aiming for an unexpected win. They emphasize her governmental initiatives, such as the implementation of free school breakfasts and the expansion of free school meals.
Despite being perceived as the preferred candidate by No10, Phillipson’s supporters consider this viewpoint ironic. Powell, if successful, is unlikely to be part of the Cabinet, distinguishing her from previous deputy leaders within Labour governments.
Some MPs consider the deputy leader contest inconsequential, suggesting that the role should be abolished, especially with David Lammy already appointed as Rayner’s successor as Deputy Prime Minister.
A victory for Powell is anticipated to send a strong message to Downing Street, signaling a need for change. Powell herself has emphasized the importance of effective communication with No10 to avoid policy mishaps.
Downing Street insiders express concerns about Powell potentially causing controversies with her statements. Both candidates in the race agree on the necessity of abolishing the two-child benefit limit enforced during the Tory era, emphasizing its detrimental effects on impoverished children.
Failure to address this policy in the upcoming Budget could lead to public disagreements between Starmer and the newly elected deputy leader.