(In the U.K) Rayner replacement must be a woman, says Harman

 

Labour is preparing to replace Angela Rayner as deputy leader following her resignation over unpaid stamp duty. The party’s National Executive Committee is meeting to agree on the timetable and rules for the election, which could be one of the defining moments of Labour’s early time in government.

Former deputy leader Harriet Harman has urged the party to select a woman from outside London, saying this would help broaden Labour’s appeal and energise its membership. She described herself as dismayed by Rayner’s departure but said the party had no choice but to act quickly to fill the post.

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Candidates face strict entry requirements, needing the support of at least 80 MPs and backing from unions or local branches. Those who qualify will be put to a vote of the wider party membership. Reports suggest hustings could take place as early as Wednesday, with nominations closing on Thursday. 

The departure of Rayner has already triggered a cabinet reshuffle that saw David Lammy become deputy prime minister and Yvette Cooper move to the role of foreign secretary. The contest is now expected to dominate Labour’s upcoming conference and spark debate about how the party balances power and representation.

Several names have already been floated as possible candidates. Dame Emily Thornberry has said she is weighing up a bid after being left out of the new government, while former transport secretary Louise Haigh has called for sweeping economic reforms without formally declaring her candidacy. Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has argued that the deputy leader should come from the north of England, pointing to Haigh or former Commons leader Lucy Powell as potential options who could give the leadership more balance.

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Some prominent figures have already ruled themselves out. Newly appointed home secretary Shabana Mahmood said her focus was on border security and she would not run. Others, such as Alison McGovern and Rosena Allin-Khan, remain possible contenders. Whoever wins will play an important role in shaping Labour’s internal direction and supporting Keir Starmer in government. 

Rayner had been a popular figure among grassroots members and was seen as a crucial link between activists and the leadership. Her departure followed the revelation that she had underpaid £40,000 in stamp duty, a breach of the ministerial code. With the cabinet reshuffled and the contest now under way, the result will determine the kind of leadership team Labour presents to the public.