Harriet Harman has voiced her support for Lucy Powell to be included in the Cabinet if she emerges victorious in the Labour Deputy leadership contest. Harman, a former Labour party chair, emphasized the tradition of having the deputy leader play a role in the Cabinet, citing Gordon Brown’s appointment of her in 2007. In an article for The Sunday Mirror, Harman praised both Powell and her competitor Bridget Phillipson as capable candidates, while expressing regret over Angela Rayner’s departure.
Powell and Phillipson are vying to replace Rayner, who recently resigned from the position of Deputy Prime Minister amid a dispute over underpaid stamp duty tax. Harman emphasized the expectation for the deputy leader to be part of the top team in a Labour government, recounting her own swift inclusion in the Cabinet after winning the deputy leadership. She urged Keir Starmer to offer Powell a cabinet seat if she wins, stressing the importance of unity within the party.
Additionally, Harman advised the future winner to take the lead in upcoming elections, particularly highlighting the significance of campaigning in Wales and Scotland. She encouraged engaging with local activists and communities, emphasizing the privilege of working towards positive change across the country. Harman also emphasized the importance of graciousness towards the defeated candidate and promoting party unity.
The announcement of the winner is scheduled for October 25, with either Lucy Powell or Bridget Phillipson set to claim victory in the contest.