Bridget Phillipson leads the nominations for Labour's deputy leadership, with hustings set to take place soon.
UPDATE AT 5 PM: The race for the Labour Party’s deputy leadership is intensifying as candidates prepare for an online hustings scheduled for Wednesday evening. Bridget Phillipson, the current Education Secretary, has emerged as the early frontrunner, receiving the most nominations among six contenders vying to replace Angela Rayner, who resigned amid controversy over her tax affairs.
Nominations Overview
Recent figures show that Phillipson has received significant support, securing 35 out of 99 nominations, making her a leading candidate in the contest. Lucy Powell, former Commons leader, follows closely with a strong backing. Other candidates include Bell Ribeiro-Addy with eight nominations, Dame Emily Thornberry with seven, Paula Barker with three, and Alison McGovern at the bottom with two nominations.
The upcoming hustings, held online, has drawn criticism from some candidates. Paula Barker has voiced concerns about the exclusive online format, arguing it may hinder participation from MPs traveling back to their constituencies during the event. She stated, “I really don’t think that that is the best democratic way for us to run this contest.” Barker also emphasized the narrow timeframe for the contest, urging a more inclusive approach to the leadership process.
Candidates’ Perspectives
Bridget Phillipson positions herself as a candidate embodying the values of the Labour movement. Describing herself as a “proud working-class woman from the North East,” she stresses the need for the Labour government to return to its core principles and deliver progressive policies. Phillipson’s background resonates with many party members advocating for strong representation from northern constituencies.
Lucy Powell, also hailing from the North, asserts that her political approach is grounded in understanding the everyday experiences of the electorate. She is committed to addressing the challenges faced by ordinary people, emphasizing the importance of being a voice for constituents. Similarly, Bell Ribeiro-Addy, known for her left-leaning stance within the party, has called for a return to Labour’s foundational values.
The Road Ahead
As the hustings approach, candidates recognize the necessity to secure at least 80 nominations from MPs by 5 PM on Thursday to advance to the next stage of the contest. Sir Keir Starmer, the party leader, is expected to play a significant role in the unfolding race. The competition is likely to extend beyond the Labour Party conference and into October, highlighting the candidates’ policies and public support.
Dame Emily Thornberry has pledged to champion party members and local constituencies, emphasizing critical issues like welfare and educational reforms. In contrast, Alison McGovern has framed her candidacy as a bridge connecting party members with the leadership, asserting her readiness to tackle contemporary political challenges.
The Labour Party’s internal dynamics are under scrutiny as the hustings draw near. Candidates must clearly articulate their visions to appeal to the party base. This election will not only determine the next deputy leader but also reflect the broader aspirations of the Labour Party as it navigates its future amid evolving political landscapes.
