Darren Jones declines to challenge Andy Burnham for Labour leadership
8 reported
Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones has announced he will not stand in a Labour leadership contest, moving Andy Burnham closer to becoming prime minister. Jones told Sky News he had a “reassuring conversation” with Burnham about his economic policy plans and is confident Burnham understands fiscal rules. Jones said he was flattered by support from colleagues but is not running, though he noted more than a quarter of Labour MPs are unhappy at the prospect of a Burnham coronation. He urged Burnham to set out more economic policy to reassure Labour MPs, citing concerns from upwards of 100 MPs. Jones also said there is “room to borrow a little bit more” for specific projects under Burnham’s plans. Separately, Burnham’s supporters are divided over who should be chancellor, with a briefing war between advocates of Wes Streeting and those close to Ed Miliband. Burnham has chosen former colleague James Purnell as his chief of staff, according to the Guardian.
What’s reported
Darren Jones said he will not stand in a Labour leadership contest.
Jones had a “reassuring conversation” with Andy Burnham about economic policy.
Jones said more than a quarter of Labour MPs are unhappy at the prospect of a Burnham coronation.
Jones said there are “upwards of 100 MPs who have expressed concerns” about a contest or economic policy.
Jones stated “there’s room to borrow a little bit more” for specific projects.
Former defence minister Al Carns is still weighing up a run.
Burnham’s supporters are divided over who should be chancellor, with a briefing war between advocates of Wes Streeting and those close to Ed Miliband.
Burnham has chosen James Purnell as his chief of staff.
Key figures
Darren Jones, chief secretary to the prime minister
Andy Burnham, newly elected MP for Makerfield
Al Carns, former defence minister
Wes Streeting, former health secretary
Ed Miliband, energy secretary
James Purnell, chosen as Burnham’s chief of staff
Keir Starmer, former prime minister who resigned
Rachel Reeves, current chancellor
Sources: The Guardian
