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David Miliband, the former Foreign Secretary, expressed optimism regarding Andy Burnham’s chances of becoming the next prime minister. Speaking at a think tank gathering in London, Miliband highlighted Burnham’s appealing qualities, noting his “openness and energy” as key strengths that make him a strong candidate to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as Labour leader and prime minister.
Miliband also praised the anticipated appointment of James Purnell, a former Labour cabinet minister, as Burnham’s chief of staff, describing it as “fantastic.” Reflecting on their shared political beginnings, Miliband remarked, “Andy Burnham, James [Purnell] and I came into the House of Commons at the same time in 2001 and I think [Burnham has] always had this remarkable ability to listen, to connect, to process data and ideas and information.” Despite stepping away from frontline politics in 2023 to lead the International Rescue Committee, Miliband has not lost his “youthful optimism.”
There has been speculation about Miliband’s potential return to government under Burnham. Although Miliband currently serves as president and CEO of the IRC, there remains a possibility that he could join the cabinet by taking a peerage in the House of Lords, similar to former Prime Minister David Cameron’s appointment as foreign secretary in Rishi Sunak’s administration. While Burnham has primarily focused on domestic issues since winning the Makerfield by-election, he is set to deliver a speech on the economy and devolution soon.
During the event, Miliband addressed questions on UK aid spending and his interest in joining Burnham’s government. He urged the next prime minister to carefully consider the IRC’s publications, emphasizing their evidence-based and cost-effective approach to helping vulnerable populations worldwide. Although he did not confirm recent contact with Burnham’s team, a source familiar with Miliband told the BBC he would be “a massive asset to Andy Burnham’s cabinet,” citing his expertise in foreign affairs, humanitarian work, and climate change. Miliband also reiterated criticism of last year’s cut in UK development assistance from 0.5% to 0.3% of national income, while welcoming the government’s prioritization of fragile and conflict-affected states within limited resources.
Having served as a key policy adviser to Tony Blair and held cabinet positions as environment secretary and foreign secretary, Miliband was a Labour leadership contender in 2010 but was defeated by his younger brother Ed. With Sir Keir’s recent resignation as prime minister, the leadership contest could conclude by mid-July if Burnham remains the sole candidate
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