Mahmood expected to become Burnham’s chancellor, Guardian reports
8 reported
Shabana Mahmood has emerged as the frontrunner to become Andy Burnham’s chancellor, according to senior Labour figures with knowledge of Burnham’s thinking who spoke to the Guardian. The home secretary is expected to be moved to the Treasury amid concerns that Ed Miliband would become a target for criticism of the government. However, sources in Burnham’s team insisted no final decision had been made, with his cabinet to be appointed only after he enters No 10 on Monday. The row over who takes over from Rachel Reeves as chancellor has divided Burnham’s allies for weeks, with supporters of Miliband arguing he is the only candidate who could challenge Treasury orthodoxy. Critics within the party, including some MPs, warned that appointing Miliband could unsettle the markets and prove a risky choice with the electorate. The pound rallied and UK government borrowing costs fell slightly on Wednesday after reports that Mahmood was the favourite.
What’s reported
Shabana Mahmood is the frontrunner to become Andy Burnham’s chancellor, according to senior Labour figures.
Sources in Burnham’s team said no final decision had been made and the cabinet would be appointed after he enters No 10 on Monday.
The row over who replaces Rachel Reeves as chancellor has divided Burnham’s allies for weeks.
Supporters of Ed Miliband argue he is the only candidate who could challenge Treasury orthodoxy.
Critics said appointing Miliband could unsettle the markets and be risky with the electorate.
The pound rallied and UK government borrowing costs fell slightly on Wednesday after reports that Mahmood was the favourite.
Mahmood’s first big task, if confirmed, would be to draw up an emergency cost of living package.
Burnham told Gary Lineker on Wednesday he may “ask for a little bit more” in tax and refused to rule out a wealth tax.
Key figures
Shabana Mahmood, home secretary and frontrunner for chancellor
Andy Burnham, prime minister-in-waiting
Ed Miliband, energy secretary and contender for chancellor
Rachel Reeves, outgoing chancellor
Louise Haigh, close ally of Burnham
James Purnell, Burnham’s chief of staff
Wes Streeting, former health secretary
Gary Lineker, footballer-turned-podcaster
Graeme Cooke, reported No 10 policy chief
Angela Rayner, former deputy prime minister
Lucy Powell, deputy Labour leader
Jonathan Reynolds, chief whip
Miatta Fahnbulleh and Anneliese Midgley, close allies of Burnham
Sources: The Guardian
