Reports suggest that Ed Miliband is angered by suggestions he has been dropped as the potential Chancellor under a prospective Andy Burnham government. Sources close to Miliband claim his office had been preparing for the move to the Treasury, with extensive discussions held regarding economic strategy.
"He basically assumed he was nailed on," one source told Dan Hodges, adding that Miliband is "pretty angry" about the reports. Another noted that Miliband has "spent the best part of a year talking to Andy about his economic strategy" and has been instrumental in recent weeks in developing a package to reassure markets.
However, individuals close to Burnham's team state that no final decision has been made. "The choice genuinely hasn't been made yet," a source said, emphasizing that Burnham will not be "bounced into anything" and that appointments will only be finalized once he is in Downing Street.
The potential reversal on the Chancellor appointment is seen by some as a sign of future governmental chaos. "Chancellor is too fundamental," one cabinet minister observed. "If you reverse your decision on that, the whole plan goes out the window."
Speculation about the reasons for a potential change of heart includes opposition from unions concerned about Miliband's environmental policies and feedback from the City that his appointment could destabilize markets. A third theory suggests Burnham is addressing a "woman problem" within his potential cabinet, seeking to avoid replacing the current senior female politician, Rachel Reeves, with another man.
This gender consideration is reportedly a significant factor for Burnham. As the incoming leader, he will be the 20th white man to hold the position since Labour's inception in 1900. Concerns also exist about the perception of a "clique" within his inner circle, reminiscent of the "Demon Eyes" football team from the Blair years, which allegedly excluded women. Furthermore, a perception from the Starmer era suggests that his former chief of staff's operation became a "Boys' Club."
Burnham's strategy to counter anticipated gender-related criticisms from the Conservatives, particularly from Kemi Badenoch, is reportedly to appoint a cabinet with a strong female representation. Shabana Mahmood and Yvette Cooper are frequently mentioned as contenders for senior roles. Rachel Reeves may also be persuaded to accept a significant portfolio if she agrees to step back from the Treasury role. Lucy Powell, Labour's deputy leader, is anticipated to become deputy prime minister, replacing David Lammy. Louise Haigh, who was instrumental in Burnham's leadership campaign, is also expected to receive a significant position, though some within Burnham's inner circle are reportedly irritated by her past candor.
Other women reportedly in line for prominent roles include Heidi Alexander, Transport Secretary, and Bridget Phillipson, Education Secretary. Angela Rayner is also expected to be given a role, though her influence may be diminished due to her actions during internal party plotting.
The focus on gender balance in cabinet appointments is viewed as a defining issue within the Labour party, particularly given the selection of another male leader. The outcome may ultimately impact Ed Miliband's aspirations for the Chancellor position.