Who Will Replace Rayner as Deputy? Inside the Labour Body Meeting!

Labour's ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) is set to convene to establish the framework for a deputy leadership election following Angela Rayner’s resignation amid a stamp duty controversy. This election is poised to be pivotal in shaping the party's future direction, with prominent figures already signalling their intentions to run.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The NEC will outline the rules and schedule for the deputy leadership election.
• Angela Rayner resigned after admitting to underpaying £40,000 in stamp duty.
• The reshuffle has resulted in significant changes within Labour's top team.
• Dame Emily Thornberry is the first candidate to express interest in the deputy leadership.
• Andy Burnham highlighted the need for greater representation from northern England in the leadership.

Background on Angela Rayner's Resignation

Angela Rayner's abrupt resignation last week was a significant moment for the Labour Party. Her admission of underpaying £40,000 in stamp duty on a new home triggered an investigation that ultimately led to her stepping down from both her roles as deputy Labour leader and deputy prime minister. This incident not only raised questions about personal conduct but also highlighted issues around transparency within government ranks.

The Role of the National Executive Committee

The NEC is responsible for overseeing party operations and making crucial decisions regarding leadership contests. As they prepare to meet, discussions will centre on how to expedite the election process, potentially altering traditional rules that allowed input from party members, unions, and Members of Parliament (MPs). This shift could lead to a more streamlined election but may also raise concerns about inclusivity and representation within the party.

Previous Deputy Leadership Elections

In past elections, Labour's deputy leadership contests involved a broader spectrum of voices, enabling a more democratic process. The inclusion of party members and unions played a critical role in ensuring that the elected deputy resonated with the grassroots of the party. The current NEC's deliberations will be crucial in determining whether this inclusive approach will continue or if a more rapid decision-making process will take precedence.

Implications of Rayner's Departure

Rayner's resignation has not only necessitated a change in the deputy leadership but has also resulted in a significant reshuffle within Sir Keir Starmer's cabinet. This reshuffle aimed to address the fallout from the scandal and present a unified front as Labour approaches upcoming challenges. The reshuffling of roles has seen David Lammy stepping in as deputy prime minister, with Steve Reed taking over the housing department. Meanwhile, Yvette Cooper has ascended to the role of foreign secretary, making this the first time in history that three women occupy the most senior cabinet positions alongside the prime minister.

Reactions from Key Figures

The reshuffle and upcoming election have elicited varied responses from notable Labour figures. Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has seized the opportunity to call for a more balanced representation within the cabinet, particularly from northern England. He has suggested that candidates such as former transport secretary Louise Haigh or ex-Commons leader Lucy Powell could provide a necessary counterbalance to what he described as a "London-centricity" in the current leadership dynamics.

Dame Emily Thornberry's Announcement

Dame Emily Thornberry, chairwoman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, has made headlines by indicating her intention to run for the deputy leadership. Her announcement comes on the heels of her exclusion from Starmer's government, where she had previously served as the shadow international trade secretary. Thornberry's potential candidacy could significantly influence the election, particularly given her established presence within the party and her commitment to addressing key issues that resonate with Labour's base.

What Lies Ahead for Labour

As Labour gears up for this deputy leadership election, the stakes are high. With the party's direction hanging in the balance, the NEC's decisions will be closely scrutinised. The upcoming party conference is expected to be overshadowed by the jockeying for position in what could be a highly contested race. Labour members and supporters will be keen to see how candidates position themselves and what policies they advocate as they seek to define the future of the party.

Challenges Ahead

The Labour Party faces numerous challenges in the wake of Rayner's resignation. The need for unity amid factional divides is paramount, particularly as the party prepares for the next general election. The deputy leadership election offers a chance for the party to recalibrate its message and priorities, but it also risks exacerbating internal tensions if not handled delicately.

Conclusion

With a new deputy leadership election looming, Labour stands at a crossroads. The decisions made by the NEC and the candidates who emerge will be pivotal in shaping the party's identity and strategy moving forward. As the political landscape evolves, how Labour navigates this transition will be critical to its success in upcoming challenges. The upcoming weeks promise significant developments that could redefine the party's future.

FAQs

What prompted Angela Rayner's resignation?

Angela Rayner resigned after admitting to underpaying £40,000 in stamp duty on a new home, which violated the ministerial code. This led to an investigation and her subsequent departure from her roles.

What is the role of the NEC in the deputy leadership election?

The NEC will set the rules and timetable for the deputy leadership election, potentially revising previous processes that involved broader participation from party members and unions.

Who has announced their candidacy for the deputy leadership?

Dame Emily Thornberry has publicly expressed her intention to run for the deputy leadership position following the announcement of the election.

What changes occurred in the cabinet after Rayner's resignation?

The cabinet underwent a significant reshuffle, with David Lammy becoming deputy prime minister, Yvette Cooper appointed as foreign secretary, and Shabana Mahmood taking over as home secretary.

Why is representation from northern England important for Labour?

Andy Burnham highlighted the need for greater representation from northern England to counteract the perceived "London-centricity" in Labour's current leadership and decision-making processes.