Green leader says Mahmood chancellor pick shows Burnham ‘subservient to City’
6 reported
Green Party leader Zack Polanski stated that reports indicating Shabana Mahmood is set to become Andy Burnham’s chancellor show Burnham would be “subservient to the City.” ITV political editor Robert Peston also commented on the probable decision, suggesting it is likely to go wrong. According to those familiar with Burnham’s thinking, he and his transition team want someone at Number 11 who will simply execute their will, with the plan to drive the economy from 10 Downing Street. Peston described Mahmood as a potential “cipher” for Burnham and his cabal, noting her skill at the Home Office in driving reform. However, Peston expressed doubt that Mahmood would allow herself to be any prime minister’s puppet. The article also includes commentary from journalists and a Green Party source criticizing the briefing process.
What’s reported
Green Party leader Zack Polanski said reports of Shabana Mahmood as chancellor show Andy Burnham would be “subservient to the City.”
ITV political editor Robert Peston thinks the decision is likely to go wrong.
According to those who know Burnham’s mind, he and his transition team want someone at Number 11 who will simply execute their will.
Peston said Mahmood would be a “cipher” for Burnham and his cabal, but doubted she would allow herself to be a puppet.
A Green Party source said the Labour briefings on the chancellor are “a gift to us.”
The article also covers nationalisation of British Steel, a new adult social care negotiating body, and a consultation on liberalising wedding venue laws.
Key figures
Zack Polanski, Green Party leader
Shabana Mahmood, expected to be named chancellor
Andy Burnham, prime minister
Robert Peston, ITV political editor
Ed Miliband, mentioned as alternative candidate
Lucy Powell, Labour deputy leader
Peter Kyle, business secretary
Blair McDougall, business minister
Rebecca Paul, Conservative MP
Louie French, shadow sports minister
Jennifer Williams, FT Northern England correspondent
Lucy Fisher, FT Whitehall editor
Sources: The Guardian
