Ed Balls provoked viewer outrage on Good Morning Britain after a tense exchange with political commentator Kevin Maguire over the next Chancellor. The discussion, led by presenters Susanna Reid and Ed Balls, focused on Andy Burnham's upcoming cabinet appointments following his effective confirmation as Labour leader with 349 MP nominations.
Kevin Maguire Tips Yvette Cooper as Chancellor
During the segment, Susanna Reid asked Maguire who might become Chancellor under Burnham. Maguire responded: "My 20p, for some time, rightly or wrongly, has been on Yvette Cooper. We don't know anyone who knows her." Susanna then turned to Ed Balls, who raised his eyebrows and said: "News to me."
Viewers quickly reacted on social media, with one commenting: "Kevin Maguire: 'My 20p, for some time, has been Yvette Cooper' Ed Balls: 'News to me' It's treated as a joke." Another added: "GMB need to be taught the same lesson Sky News were taught. Keep being a party political broadcast on behalf of the Labour Party lose viewers in droves. As for loud mouth and Yvette Cooper's husband Ed they are helping to destroy what used to be one of the best morning shows."
Speculation Over Burnham's Cabinet
With less than a week until Andy Burnham introduces his first cabinet, the race for the second most powerful job in government has intensified. Growing speculation suggests Rachel Reeves may be moved out of the Treasury, potentially to a lesser Cabinet role such as culture or health. Should Yvette Cooper be moved to the Treasury, that would open up the Foreign Secretary role, leading to a series of changes likely not finalised until hours before Burnham takes over as Prime Minister.
Maguire also faced criticism for appearing on GMB for the second consecutive day. He suggested the Reform Party leader was using Ann Widdecombe's death as a "diversion from rows over gifts and donations," referencing a by-election and pressure on police.
