Andy Burnham has moved a step closer to becoming prime minister after Darren Jones, the chief secretary to the prime minister, announced he would not stand in a Labour leadership contest. Jones, who had been considered a potential candidate to challenge Burnham, told Sky News that a conversation with the newly elected MP for Makerfield had reassured him about Burnham's economic policy plans.
Reassurance on Fiscal Rules
Jones stated that he was confident Burnham understood the fiscal rules, which Burnham has already committed to abiding by should he come to power. This reassurance comes amid concerns from Labour MPs about Burnham's economic approach. Jones urged Burnham to set out more of his economic policy to reassure the parliamentary party, noting that there were "upwards of 100 MPs who have expressed concerns either around a contest or economic policy, or who were just feeling pretty depressed off the back of Keir Starmer resigning."
Potential Contest and Chancellor Speculation
Despite stepping aside, Jones indicated he could have secured enough support to stand, with more than a quarter of Labour MPs unhappy at the prospect of a Burnham coronation. "If there was a contest of Labour party members, he would win. So the question for me is, well, what would the benefit be to the country and to the party of a leadership contest?" Jones said. He also addressed concerns about who would become chancellor if Burnham replaces Rachel Reeves. Some on the right of the party have reservations about Ed Miliband taking the role, while a briefing war has broken out between supporters of Wes Streeting and those close to Miliband.
Jones' Tests for Chancellor
Setting out his criteria for the next chancellor, Jones emphasized the need for a clear view of the political economy, a strong relationship with the prime minister, and the ability to reassure markets, trade unions, the parliamentary Labour party, and the public. When asked if Miliband met these tests, Jones declined to comment directly, saying, "I will let you mark those tests, but those are the tests I think need to be met."
Burnham's Team and Next Steps
Burnham has chosen his Blairite former colleague James Purnell as his chief of staff, the Guardian understands, as he finalizes his team for government. The move makes Burnham's coronation as prime minister almost inevitable, though former defence minister Al Carns is still weighing up a run.
