Ed Miliband has been blocked from becoming chancellor under incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham, according to reports. Three sources close to Burnham told The State of It podcast that the Labour leader-in-waiting has been persuaded not to appoint Miliband to the top Treasury role.
One ally of Burnham said: “Ed would have been a lightning rod for criticism. He is out of the running.” Another added that “the tide has turned against Ed”, while a third stated “it looks like the right outcome has been reached”.
Burnham to Enter Downing Street Within Days
Andy Burnham is set to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as prime minister on Monday, having been the only candidate in Labour's leadership race. He has delayed announcing his Cabinet until he enters No 10.
The Energy Secretary, who has been leading Labour's net zero push, had been at the centre of speculation over who would become chancellor. There were reports that Miliband was willing to approve more North Sea oil and gas drilling to secure the job.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood Frontrunner for Chancellor
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is said to be the frontrunner to replace Rachel Reeves as chancellor, according to sources close to Burnham.
The Tories have accused Burnham of “running scared” by not facing MPs before they break for the summer. The House of Commons is due to rise for recess on Thursday, with MPs returning on September 1.
Conservative Leader Criticises Labour
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said: “In an unprecedented move, Labour have scrapped the Conservative vote to force Andy Burnham to come to Parliament to answer questions when he becomes PM on Monday. Labour are running scared because they know the honeymoon will be over the minute he has to tell us his plans.”
