The race to become Labour's deputy leader is intensifying, with either Lucy Powell or Bridget Phillipson set to win. The contest, triggered by Angela Rayner's resignation, has exposed deep internal rifts within the party.
Powell, the former Commons leader, initially feared dismissal but now leads in polls by 17 points. However, Phillipson, the education secretary, has secured endorsements from three major trade unions and has strong support in London and the north-east.
The campaign has been marked by acrimony. Powell's supporters feel she has been unfairly portrayed as reckless, while Phillipson has faced internal briefing against her. One MP noted, 'People keep saying the gloves are off – there is only one candidate with the gloves off and it’s not Lucy.'
Senior strategists had hoped to avoid a contest, but efforts to engineer a coronation for Phillipson failed. Low turnout is expected among apathetic members, adding uncertainty to the outcome.
Inside Number 10, there is disquiet about the prospect of a Powell victory, given strained relations over welfare votes. The result, announced with a low-key event on Saturday, could either exacerbate tensions or force a reckoning on party unity.
