Phillipson and Powell Advance in Labour’s Deputy Leadership Race

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and former Commons leader Lucy Powell will compete for the role of deputy leader of the Labour Party following a successful first round of nominations. Both candidates garnered sufficient support to progress in the contest, while backbencher Bell Ribeiro-Addy was eliminated after receiving only 24 nominations from Labour MPs, falling short of the required 80.

Ms. Phillipson secured a total of 175 nominations, leading the field, while Ms. Powell received 117 nominations. Ribeiro-Addy’s exit leaves them as the only two contenders still in the race to succeed Angela Rayner, who resigned amid controversy regarding her tax affairs.

Next Steps in the Leadership Contest

The remaining candidates must now obtain the support of at least 5% of constituency parties or endorsements from at least three affiliates, which must include a minimum of two affiliated trade unions. The nomination process is critical as it sets the stage for the subsequent ballot.

Voting will open on October 8 and will close at noon on October 23. The results are expected to be announced on October 25. The upcoming election will likely be a focal point during Labour’s annual conference in Liverpool at the end of September, with some viewing it as a referendum on the current leadership under Sir Keir Starmer.

Despite the competitive nature of the election, neither Ms. Phillipson nor Ms. Powell has publicly criticized Sir Keir Starmer. In contrast, other candidates had called for a shift in direction for the party, highlighting the nuanced dynamics at play within Labour as it navigates this leadership transition.

With these developments, Labour’s deputy leadership race promises to engage party members and observers alike, especially as the party prepares for its critical annual conference. The outcome of this contest could have significant implications for Labour’s strategy and unity as it seeks to position itself in a challenging political landscape.