Burnham on course to be PM, but what would his No 10 operation look like?
Burnham on course to be PM, but what would his No 10 operation look like?
Burnham on course to be PM but - Westminster's primary focus today lies not on the next prime minister, but on the appointments Andy Burnham will make and how he will wield authority. Labour MPs now view Burnham's rise to leadership as inevitable. Starmer's departure was announced, setting the stage for his likely succession. In recent days, remaining challenges have dissolved swiftly, including Darren Jones' decision to abandon a personal bid for leadership. While Al Carns hasn't ruled out a contest, securing 81 Labour MPs' backing to trigger a formal challenge appears improbable.
Chancellor Candidates
The role of chancellor has emerged as a pivotal point of discussion. Rachel Reeves is expected to step down from this position, a move that aligns with expectations for a new administration. Though predictable for an incoming leader promising change, Reeves' departure carries weight—she had led the Treasury for two years and shaped Labour's economic strategy during opposition. Her likely transition to a junior cabinet role is notable, as few chancellors have moved down the hierarchy in recent decades. Nadhim Zahawi's brief tenure under Boris Johnson is the last such instance, dating back to 1983.
The frontrunner for the chancellorship is Ed Miliband, energy secretary and a vocal supporter of Burnham's ambitions. Advocates argue his expertise in economic governance, honed during his time advising Gordon Brown, would serve Burnham well. Yet some MPs, particularly on the party's right wing, worry his policies might push Labour too far left. "The chancellor thing is a huge risk for Andy," one MP cautioned. "If Andy goes through with Ed, it will divide the party from the start," another warned.
Wes Streeting, meanwhile, has positioned himself as a contender. His recent emphasis on "progressive capitalism" and communication skills have drawn attention. Allies suggest he could reassure financial markets and translate complex ideas into relatable terms. However, concerns persist about his potential rivalry with Burnham. "Would Andy ever trust Wes to support him when the going gets tough?" a minister questioned.
Yvette Cooper, foreign secretary and former chief secretary to the Treasury, and John Healey, ex-defence secretary, also remain in the running. Appointing Healey would signal a commitment to boosting defence spending, a key priority for some factions.
Chief of Staff Choice
Burnham's team structure is already taking shape, with James Purnell confirmed as his chief of staff. Purnell, a former culture and work and pensions secretary, shares a notable history with Burnham. Both served in Tony Blair's government and later represented Greater Manchester constituencies. Their ideological alignment has long been a subject of debate, as Purnell was once seen as a centrist Blairite. However, their personal bond may outweigh political differences.
"I think the chancellor thing is a huge risk for Andy," says one MP. "If Andy goes through with Ed it will divide the party from the start," says another.
While Purnell's appointment reflects a strategic alliance, it also underscores the blend of experience and loyalty shaping Burnham's inner circle. The choice signals a balance between policy expertise and personal connections, setting the tone for his leadership transition.