Bridget Phillipson cautions that divided political parties, such as Labour, face challenges in winning elections due to growing dissatisfaction among MPs. Running for the position of deputy leader to succeed Angela Rayner, the Education Secretary emphasizes the importance of unity within the party to effectively combat Reform UK. Phillipson pledges to empower party members by ensuring their voices are heard in Cabinet discussions.
Competing against Lucy Powell, who recently lost her Cabinet position under Keir Starmer’s leadership, Phillipson stresses the necessity of a cohesive approach for Labour’s success in upcoming elections across different regions. In an article for The Mirror, she underscores the significance of party unity, highlighting the risk of conceding an advantage to Nigel Farage and Reform in key electoral battlegrounds like Scotland, Wales, and local constituencies.
Phillipson commits to maintaining Rayner’s proactive campaigning role as deputy leader, advocating for a forward-looking agenda that offers hope and progress rather than dwelling on past grievances. Reflecting on Labour’s victory in the last General Election, she urges party members to unite once again to present a compelling vision for the country’s future, emphasizing the perils of internal discord that could hinder Labour’s effectiveness in challenging the status quo.
Phillipson’s statements coincide with her imminent deputy leader campaign launch and a growing sense of discontent among Labour MPs regarding recent government missteps and the handling of Peter Mandelson’s dismissal as Ambassador to Washington. Concerns have been raised about a lack of timely communication between No10 officials and key figures within the party, drawing criticism from backbench Labour MP Olivia Blake, who highlighted the need for improved transparency and decision-making processes within Downing Street.
In response to the internal turmoil, Lucy Powell advocates for a cultural shift within the government, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and collaborative decision-making. Reports of Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, potentially positioning himself for a leadership bid in case of Starmer’s failure, have been downplayed by his close ally, dismissing such speculations as unsubstantiated.
Harriet Harman, a Labour veteran and former deputy leader, warns against turning the deputy leader race into a proxy battle between prominent male figures like Burnham and Starmer. Instead, she encourages a focus on the capabilities and leadership qualities of the female candidates, emphasizing the need for a fair and merit-based selection process that prioritizes the best candidate for the role.