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Lucy Powell, a contender for the Labour deputy leadership position, recently voiced her criticism towards the government’s handling of welfare issues after being dismissed by Sir Keir Starmer. In a BBC interview with Nick Robinson, Powell highlighted the government’s “unforced errors” regarding attempts to reduce disability benefits and winter fuel payments, causing voters to question whose interests were being prioritized. She called for clearer communication from the party’s leaders on the abolition of the two-child benefit cap and encouraged a more proactive approach on the matter instead of being defensive.
Powell’s bid for the deputy leadership is up against Bridget Phillipson, the former education secretary, in the race to fill Angela Rayner’s position. Addressing speculations that her candidacy was linked to a potential leadership bid by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, Powell dismissed such claims as part of a “classic Westminster bubble obsession.” She emphasized the importance of focusing on the two women competing in the open and transparent contest rather than turning the discussion into a proxy conflict between male figures. Powell also rejected the notion that she was acting as a stand-in for Ed Miliband, emphasizing her independence and strong political profile separate from anyone else.
Regarding her dismissal from the cabinet, Powell hinted at her outspokenness on issues like welfare cuts as a potential reason for her removal. She pledged to be a conduit for members’ views if elected deputy leader, ensuring that their concerns are effectively conveyed to Sir Keir Starmer. Powell indicated that she had no intentions of seeking a cabinet position if successful and expressed support for David Lammy as Rayner’s replacement. In outlining her vision as a full-time deputy leader, Powell underscored the need to bridge the gap between party members and the leadership for a more cohesive and united approach.
Meanwhile, Bridget Phillipson, in her bid for the deputy leadership, emphasized the importance of unity within the Labour Party to secure a second term in government. Acknowledging past mistakes made by the government, Phillipson urged against internal divisions that could potentially benefit external opponents like Nigel Farage. Emphasizing the need to move forward as a united front, she highlighted the detrimental effects of internal conflicts and the importance of focusing on the larger goal of securing victory in future elections
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