Labour Leadership Poised for Significant Reshuffle
Speculation is mounting that David Lammy is facing a potential removal from his position as Deputy Prime Minister, with indications that Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell is being considered for the role. This move is reportedly part of an effort by incoming leader Andy Burnham to increase female representation within his senior team.
Ms. Powell, a close ally of Mr. Burnham, is understood to be a strong candidate for the Deputy Prime Minister position, particularly following her instrumental role in guiding Mr. Burnham to the cusp of Downing Street. Her involvement was crucial in securing his nomination for the pivotal Makerfield by-election, reportedly overcoming opposition from within Number 10. Furthermore, she is believed to have played a part in facilitating recent discussions with Sir Keir Starmer aimed at ensuring a smooth leadership transition.
One individual aligned with Mr. Burnham’s camp stated, “Andy is keen to see the roles of Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Leader aligned.” Mr. Lammy has held his current, largely ceremonial, appointment since September. In his stead, Ms. Powell would be expected to deputise for Mr. Burnham during Prime Minister’s Questions and represent him at various diplomatic engagements.
Addressing Gender Balance Concerns
This potential shift comes amidst growing concerns among Members of Parliament that the Labour Party may face criticism for selecting another male leader. A government insider commented, “Andy is aware that he will face scrutiny regarding the party’s choice of another white male leader. Appointing capable women to key positions is seen as a strategy to mitigate this.”
To counter perceptions of favouritism, there is active consideration being given to ensuring that all four major offices of state – Chancellor, Foreign Secretary, Home Secretary, and Defence Secretary – are held by women. Earlier reports suggested Rachel Reeves might be removed as Chancellor, with Ed Miliband potentially taking over. However, this prospect has reportedly met with resistance from trade unions and members of the parliamentary Labour Party.
Sources within the government indicate that a potential ‘job swap’ between Ms. Reeves and current Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is being explored. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is also reportedly advocating for the Chancellor position. One minister shared, “Shabana had been signalling her desire to remain at the Home Office, essentially to preempt any moves by Keir Starmer to sideline her. She is now making it known that she would consider a move to the Treasury if it were offered.”
Ms. Cooper is considered a leading candidate for a move to the Treasury. While respected by Mr. Burnham’s team, she has reportedly expressed a preference to stay in her current role. There had also been reports of John Healey potentially returning as Defence Secretary after his unexpected resignation. However, allies of Mr. Burnham are reportedly concerned that such a move could create financial constraints, specifically due to Mr. Healey’s purported demand for a substantial increase in defence spending. A source familiar with the situation noted, “Securing the necessary funds for the spending uplift proposed by Starmer will be challenging. Fulfilling John’s request would effectively place us in financial jeopardy.”
