Lucy Powell has emerged as the new Labour deputy leader following a closely contested victory over Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson. The former Commons leader secured 87,407 votes in the election to succeed Angela Rayner, defeating Phillipson who garnered 73,536 votes.
Powell’s win comes after being removed from the Cabinet during the reshuffle that followed Rayner’s resignation last month. It is perceived as a signal from Labour members for a change in direction from Keir Starmer’s Government.
In her post-victory speech, Powell emphasized the crucial need for change in the face of rising division and discontent. She stressed the Labour Party’s responsibility to address these challenges and offer hope for the future.
Out of 970,642 eligible voters, 160,993 cast their votes, resulting in a turnout of 16.6%. Powell urged her party to provide hope and deliver the significant changes that the country seeks, positioning herself as an ally to the Prime Minister in driving the political agenda.
Responding to Powell’s victory, the Prime Minister congratulated her and expressed confidence in her ability to serve as an outstanding Deputy leader. He highlighted the ongoing efforts of his Labour Government to deliver the transformative change desired by the British people.
Powell, who first became an MP for Manchester Central in 2012, now joins a select group of women who have held the position of Labour deputy leader. Her election marks the fourth time a woman has been chosen for this role, following in the footsteps of Margaret Beckett, Harriet Harman, and Angela Rayner.
In her resignation statement in the Commons, Rayner emphasized the importance of boldness in Labour’s approach and pledged to continue advocating for change and social values. She vowed to maintain her commitment and socialist principles despite her change in title.
Rayner’s departure from her positions as Housing Secretary, Deputy PM, and Labour’s deputy leader last month was prompted by a tax issue related to her seaside property in Hove. Following an investigation, it was revealed that she had underpaid stamp duty on the property, leading to her resignation.
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