The upcoming Labour Deputy Leadership competition holds significant importance for both our party’s future and the nation as a whole.
My message to fellow Labour members is straightforward: I aim to unite our party in driving change to defeat Reform in the upcoming election and secure a second term for Labour.
I seek a mandate from our members to bring about more hope, increased opportunities for young individuals, and the advancement of transformative policies that enhance life opportunities for all.
Having personally experienced the positive impacts of Labour governments that propelled me from a challenging council estate in the northeast to a position in the Cabinet, I understand the freedom and opportunities a Labour government can offer.
Labour administrations have a history of lifting children out of poverty, which inspired my political journey. In our initial year in power, I have diligently worked to enhance life prospects for our children.
I have implemented initiatives like free breakfast clubs, rejuvenated Sure Start services through Best Start Family Hubs, established new school-based nurseries, expanded Free School Meals coverage, and prioritized investing in state education by eliminating tax breaks for private schools.
However, I aspire to garner further support to make Labour members proud of our party. I want them to be enthusiastic about campaigning, engaging with communities, and advocating for the positive impact a Labour government brings.
The road to victory traverses all our regions, towns, cities, and countryside. Unity is paramount as divided parties struggle to win elections. We cannot afford to give Reform and Nigel Farage an advantage, especially with imminent elections in Scotland, Wales, and local areas.
That’s why I commit to continuing Angela Rayner’s campaigning efforts as Deputy Leader, focusing on re-electing Labour representatives at all levels, amplifying members’ voices in the Cabinet, and striving for a well-deserved second term for Labour nationwide.
We must avoid regression to a fractured Labour Party, steering clear of past conflicts. Labour members seek optimism for the future, not discord. Our success in the previous General Election stemmed from our collective vision for the country’s future.
Reuniting is imperative to prevent the disarray that plagued us during fourteen years in opposition. We must not cede ground to parties lacking in vision and hope. Our nation cannot bear such consequences.
I pledge to unite our party around shared values, pursue common objectives, overcome adversaries, and uphold the vision our movement aspires to realize.
Now is the time to unite, to secure victory, to achieve more, and to reshape Britain positively.