Neil Kinnock, the former leader of the Labour Party, has given his support to Lucy Powell in the race for deputy leadership. 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 another prominent Labour figure, Alan Johnson, endorsing Bridget Phillipson as a contender to succeed Angela Rayner as deputy leader. The voting process is set to commence on Wednesday, with the announcement of the results scheduled for October 25.
Speaking about Powell, Lord Kinnock emphasized her long-standing commitment to Labour values and the importance of representing the broad spectrum of the party. He expressed confidence in Powell’s ability to provide substantial and coherent support to the government as Deputy Leader.
In response, Powell expressed her gratitude for Kinnock’s endorsement, highlighting her dedication to giving members a stronger connection to the communities they serve. She emphasized the need for the Labour government to thrive by listening to diverse perspectives and advocating for the interests of the people.
Alan Johnson, former Home Secretary, also backed Bridget Phillipson, praising her as one of Labour’s standout performers who can communicate the party’s achievements effectively. Johnson commended Phillipson’s exceptional performance in challenging cabinet roles and endorsed her ability to unite voters across the political spectrum for future electoral success.