Andy Burnham Set to Become Labour Leader as Calls Grow to Appoint Ed Miliband Chancellor
Sara Sultan- SCN
LONDON — Andy Burnham is expected to be formally confirmed as the new leader of the UK Labour Party today, placing him on course to become Britain's next prime minister after securing overwhelming backing from Labour MPs following Keir Starmer's resignation.
As Burnham prepares to take over, former Labour deputy leader Harriet Harman has urged him to appoint ministers from across the party rather than limiting key positions to his own political allies. She specifically argued that Energy Secretary Ed Miliband should be considered for the influential role of chancellor.
Harman said Labour's next government would benefit from drawing on talent from different factions within the party, helping present a united front while tackling economic challenges and preparing for the next general election.
The choice of chancellor has become one of Burnham's first major decisions. While some Labour MPs support Miliband because of his experience and economic vision, other senior figures reportedly favour Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, viewing her as a more moderate and market-friendly choice.
Burnham has so far declined to reveal his cabinet lineup, saying appointments will be announced after the leadership transition is complete. His supporters say he wants to build a government focused on devolving power away from London, boosting regional growth and restoring public confidence in Labour.
The incoming leader faces immediate pressure to unite Labour after months of internal divisions while also responding to the growing electoral challenge posed by Reform UK under Nigel Farage. Political analysts say his early cabinet choices will be viewed as an important signal of how he intends to govern.