Ed Miliband is reportedly furious after Andy Burnham, the new Prime Minister, decided not to appoint him as Chancellor of the Exchequer. According to recent briefings, Burnham is having second thoughts about giving Miliband the top Treasury job, instead considering Shabana Mahmood for the role. Miliband, who helped drive Keir Starmer out of Number 10 and install Burnham, now feels snubbed and is "spitting feathers," according to sources.
Miliband's Net Zero Agenda Under Fire
Miliband's tenure as energy secretary has been controversial. His accelerated push for net zero by 2030 has saddled households and businesses with eye-watering costs, blocked new North Sea oil and gas projects, and hit jobs, tax revenues, investment, and energy security. Critics argue that throwing tens of billions at vast infrastructure schemes, unproven carbon capture technology, and wind and solar projects before the grid is ready has been counterproductive. Productive farmland and beautiful countryside are being scarred by oversized wind turbines, solar farms, pylons, and battery storage plants, many manufactured in China. The oil city of Aberdeen is being ravaged, and the UK is de-industrialising.
Burnham's Dilemma
Burnham faces a difficult choice. Miliband is hugely popular among Labour Party MPs and activists, and sidelining him could provoke a mutiny. Labour's 403 MPs are overwhelmingly on the left and prone to rebellion. If Burnham faces difficulties, Miliband could become a rallying point for dissent. However, giving Miliband the Treasury would be risky, as he is seen as a loose cannon who goes his own way. Starmer tried to rein him in and was rebuffed; Rachel Reeves also faced snubs when she opposed North Sea drilling. Burnham reportedly considered offering Miliband another senior post, such as foreign secretary, to keep him occupied and prevent plotting.
Reactions and Implications
The decision to sideline Miliband has been welcomed by financial markets, trade unions, and many outside the liberal bubble of North London. It is seen as a win for the UK's energy policy and economy, potentially allowing reindustrialisation instead of companies shifting operations overseas for cheaper energy. However, it could backfire if Miliband becomes a focal point for left-wing opposition. As one observer noted, "New prime ministers like an early win, and canning Red Ed looks like one of the easiest available. But it could backfire."
Donald Trump has also warned against making Miliband chancellor, adding to the pressure on Burnham. The situation remains fluid, with more details expected tomorrow. Burnham must watch his back, as Miliband is known for his political maneuvering—having previously stabbed his brother David and Keir Starmer in the back.
