Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell has likened outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer to a football manager who has "lost the dressing room," a phrase indicating a loss of team confidence. Powell, a close ally of Andy Burnham, made the comparison during a television interview, suggesting Starmer's decision to step down reflects this situation.
Powell noted that, similar to a coach whose team no longer believes in them, the manager often makes the decision to leave. She acknowledged Starmer's contributions to the Labour Party, stating that the party owes him gratitude and is now moving into a new phase. "When the manager loses the dressing room, the manager often takes the decision that it's the time for them to go, and I think that's the decision that he has made," Powell said.
During the same interview, Powell expressed support for Ed Miliband potentially serving as Chancellor if Andy Burnham is elected unopposed as Labour leader. "Yes I do actually," she responded when asked if Miliband would be a good Treasury chief, though she cautioned that the focus should be on current party priorities.
Steve Reed, identified as one of Starmer's key cabinet allies and the current Housing Secretary, indicated he would be willing to continue in his role under Andy Burnham. He stated that the decision on cabinet appointments rests with the prime minister and that he has enjoyed his current position. "I'm getting on with the job and I've enjoyed doing it, and if he offered it to me, I'd be very happy but it's up to the prime minister," Reed commented.
Reed also offered a sympathetic perspective on Starmer's departure, acknowledging the emotional toll of political life. He emphasized that while individual feelings are present, the crucial aspect is the impact on the country and the party's mandate to address issues such as the cost of living crisis, NHS waiting lists, and housing shortages.