Neil Kinnock, the former Labour leader, has thrown his support behind Lucy Powell in the deputy leadership contest. Kinnock praised Powell, the MP for Manchester Central, as an exceptional candidate who will amplify the voice of the entire Labour movement.
This endorsement follows Alan Johnson, a prominent Labour figure, endorsing Bridget Phillipson as a candidate to replace Angela Rayner as deputy leader. Voting for the position will commence on Wednesday, with the outcome expected to be revealed on October 25.
Expressing his confidence in Powell, Kinnock highlighted her dedication to Labour values of justice, equity, and liberty. He emphasized the importance of Powell advocating for the diverse voices within the party and providing strong support to the government.
In response, Powell expressed her gratitude for Kinnock’s endorsement, stating her commitment to representing the party members and connecting with the communities they serve. She emphasized the necessity for the Labour government to succeed and highlighted the strength of the party’s collective movement.
On the other hand, Johnson lauded Phillipson’s performance as Education Secretary, describing her as a standout performer within the party. He endorsed her ability to convey the government’s impact on people’s lives and to communicate the Labour Party’s historical mission of combating poverty and promoting equality.
Both endorsements underscore the significance of the upcoming deputy leadership election for the Labour Party’s future direction and messaging.