Harriet Harman emphasized the importance of selecting a female deputy leader from outside London to replace Angela Rayner within the Labour Party. She suggested that the chosen individual should complement the Prime Minister rather than act as a direct contrast. Harman stressed the need for gender diversity in leadership positions within the party.
The race to fill the vacant deputy leader position commenced with a six-week contest after the National Executive Committee (NEC) agreed to have a new deputy in office by October 25. To qualify for the contest, MPs must secure nominations from at least 80 fellow MPs by Thursday. Bell Ribeiro-Addy has confirmed her candidacy, while Dame Emily Thornberry is considering entering the race.
Various MPs are encouraging Lucy Powell, Anneliese Dodds, Stella Creasy, and Rosena Allin-Khan to run for the position. Housing Minister Alison McGovern did not rule out the possibility of joining the contest.
Despite speculation, Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, declined to run for deputy leader, citing her commitment to her current role. Louise Haigh and Dawn Butler also opted out of the race, emphasizing the importance of a fair selection process for the next Deputy Leader.
The nomination threshold makes it challenging for left-leaning figures to secure a spot on the ballot. MPs are looking for a candidate who aligns with certain values, such as opposing recent policy decisions.
Keir Starmer addressed MPs at the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) meeting following his recent Cabinet reshuffle. It is reported that the Prime Minister will remain neutral and not endorse any candidate in the deputy leadership race.