Explosive leaked WhatsApp messages have exposed a deepening rift within Labour's upper echelons, revealing how Sir Keir Starmer's inner circle stands accused of deliberately sidelining some of the party's most prominent figures.
The extraordinary revelations, obtained by the Daily Mail, paint a picture of a leadership team actively working to marginalise key Labour personalities including Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and frontbencher Lucy Powell.
Phillipson Emerges as Power Player
At the centre of the storm is Shadow Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, who appears to play a pivotal role in what insiders describe as a systematic effort to control the party's public facing figures.
According to the leaked exchanges, Ms Phillipson explicitly advised against deploying Mr Burnham for media appearances, suggesting the high-profile mayor should be kept away from microphone duties.
Systematic Exclusion Strategy
The messages reveal a pattern of behaviour that extends beyond Mr Burnham. Lucy Powell, the Shadow Leader of the Commons, also found herself effectively frozen out despite her senior position.
One particularly damning exchange shows how Ms Powell was deliberately excluded from a major education announcement, with Ms Phillipson allegedly questioning her involvement in the policy area.
Leadership Circles Tighten
The leaks suggest Sir Keir's operation has become increasingly insular, with decision-making concentrated among a small group of trusted allies. This approach has apparently created significant friction with other senior Labour figures who feel increasingly marginalised.
The revelations come at a sensitive time for Labour, which maintains a strong lead in opinion polls but now faces questions about internal unity and leadership style.
Broader Implications for Labour
Political analysts suggest these leaks could point to deeper tensions within the party as it positions itself for a potential general election victory. The treatment of high-profile figures like Mr Burnham, who remains popular in the North, raises questions about regional representation within Starmer's Labour.
Meanwhile, the emergence of Ms Phillipson as a key power broker signals potential shifts in the party's future leadership landscape, should Labour succeed in forming the next government.
