Rachel Reeves Supports Andy Burnham's Bid for Prime Minister
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has signaled her support for Andy Burnham as he prepares to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as the leader of the Labour Party and Prime Minister. The move comes as Burnham, the MP for Makerfield, emerges as the frontrunner for the top job following Starmer's announcement that he is stepping down.
Burnham's ascent to No 10 appears increasingly likely after several potential rivals withdrew from the race. Wes Streeting, previously seen as a primary competitor, has abandoned his bid and endorsed Burnham. Additionally, senior minister Darren Jones has ruled himself out, stating that Burnham would win any contest among party members.
Despite her endorsement, reports suggest that Reeves may not retain her current role. According to the Financial Times, Burnham is expected to replace her as chancellor and offer her a more junior position within his cabinet. Sources close to Burnham's team reportedly view her tenure at the Treasury as unsuccessful, citing criticism over fiscal policies such as National Insurance hikes for employers and inheritance tax changes affecting farmers.
Burnham's allies have emphasized his track record of delivery as the Mayor of Greater Manchester as a key qualification for the premiership. Cabinet Office minister Nick Thomas-Symonds and Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds have also expressed strong support, with Reynolds suggesting that no other rivals possess enough support to mount a challenge.
If no other candidates emerge to trigger a full leadership contest, Burnham could potentially become prime minister as early as July 16. Sir Keir Starmer has already met with Burnham for an hour to facilitate an orderly transition of power.
While the transition is underway, the party is debating the exact process for the leadership change. Some MPs have suggested that Burnham should still present his government program and policies for scrutiny through hustings, even in the absence of other candidates. Potential successors for the chancellor role include Ed Miliband, Wes Streeting, John Healey, and Yvette Cooper.
