Bridget Phillipson and Lucy Powell are set to compete for the position of Labour’s deputy leader, aiming to succeed Angela Rayner. Powell, who was recently dismissed as Commons leader by Keir Starmer, has garnered support from 117 MPs, while Phillipson, an Education Secretary and loyal supporter of the Prime Minister, became the first candidate to secure enough backing.
Left-wing MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy, with only 24 backers, did not make it to the next stage of the contest. Powell expressed her unexpected entry into the race, emphasizing the importance of the new deputy leader uniting the party and aiding in driving progressive change in the country.
Unfortunately, senior Labour MP Dame Emily Thornberry withdrew from the race after receiving only 13 nominations, expressing gratitude to party members for their support. Additionally, Liverpool Wavertree MP Paula Barker also withdrew, endorsing Powell as a potential ally to the government who can effectively address party concerns.
Powell and Phillipson will now seek endorsements from three of Labour’s affiliate bodies, including two trade unions, or gain support from 5% of constituency parties nationwide. This process will continue until September 27, potentially overshadowing the party’s annual conference scheduled to commence the following day in Liverpool.
