Express readers have overwhelmingly rejected Ed Miliband as a candidate to replace Rachel Reeves as Chancellor in an Andy Burnham government, with the Energy Secretary receiving just 55 votes in a poll of over 2,000 readers. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood and former Health Secretary Wes Streeting were the preferred choices, but the largest share of votes—more than 1,400—went to 'none of the above'.
Poll results show clear opposition to Miliband
The Express reader poll, conducted on June 25, 2026, asked who should succeed Rachel Reeves as Chancellor under a potential Andy Burnham premiership. Wes Streeting led with 608 votes, followed by Shabana Mahmood with 205. Ed Miliband managed only 55 votes, just two more than Reeves herself, who received 53. Miatta Fahnbulleh, a Burnham ally, came last with 28 votes.
The 'none of the above' option secured 1,400 votes, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the available candidates. The poll results align with concerns raised by senior Labour figures, including Darren Jones, who this week advised Burnham against appointing Miliband to the Treasury.
Darren Jones sets tests for next chancellor
Darren Jones, a senior minister, declined to endorse Miliband while outlining a series of 'tests' for the next occupant of Number 11. He urged Burnham to clarify his economic policies, noting that 'upwards of 100 MPs' were either concerned about Burnham's plans or 'feeling pretty depressed' following Sir Keir Starmer's resignation.
If no other candidate secures the 81 nominations required to enter the Labour leadership ballot, Burnham is expected to become Prime Minister by July 18. Sir Keir Starmer has already authorised 'access talks' between leadership contenders and the Civil Service, allowing Burnham and his team to receive government briefings once he demonstrates support from 81 Labour MPs.
Starmer's future and potential cabinet roles
There had been speculation that Starmer could be offered an international role, such as Foreign Secretary, but Downing Street played down any prospect of a future Cabinet position on Wednesday. The Prime Minister's political spokesperson indicated that Sir Keir intends to remain a backbench MP for the rest of his parliamentary term. When asked if he would accept a Cabinet job if offered, the spokesperson said Starmer told his ministers: 'This is the end of my journey, but this is not the end of yours.'
Other senior Labour figures tipped for top jobs in a Burnham-led government include Wes Streeting, Shabana Mahmood, and former Transport Secretary Louise Haigh.
