Lucy Powell has issued a stern warning to those fueling speculation about the leadership of Keir Starmer, urging them to refrain from such discussions as the Labour party gears up for crucial elections in May.
Speaking in an interview with The Mirror, Powell, the party’s deputy leader, expressed her confidence that the polls will narrow, emphasizing the need for the party to be prepared for the challenges ahead in 2026. With critical elections looming in England, Scotland, and Wales in just over four months, some Labour MPs are cautiously contemplating the future of Starmer’s leadership if the May elections result in a setback for the party.
Powell cautioned against excessive introspection when pressed about colleagues mulling over the Prime Minister’s position, emphasizing the importance of focusing on improving the party’s performance rather than engaging in speculative discussions about hypothetical scenarios. She stressed the need for MPs and leaders in Westminster to concentrate on the actual issues facing voters in the upcoming elections, rather than getting entangled in political dramas.
Regarding those perpetuating the leadership debate, Powell suggested that they should desist from further discussions, emphasizing the need to prioritize the significant matters at hand. She underscored the gravity of the upcoming May elections, characterizing them as a critical choice between Labour and potential Reform representation in various regions, highlighting the tangible impacts on local services and communities in Scotland and Wales.
Powell acknowledged the challenges faced by Labour in 2025, acknowledging past mistakes such as cuts to winter fuel payments and welfare, and emphasized the party’s need to demonstrate a clear sense of purpose and alignment with the public. She pointed to recent progress, including the Budget initiatives and policy changes aimed at addressing key social issues like child poverty.
Looking ahead to 2026, Powell emphasized the importance of articulating Labour’s commitment to tackling the cost of living crisis and economic disparities, emphasizing the party’s focus on improving the lives of ordinary working families across the country. She stressed the need for a targeted approach to communicate Labour’s efforts in addressing long-standing economic inequalities and hardships faced by everyday citizens.
Powell, who succeeded Angela Rayner as Deputy Leader in October, expressed her support for Rayner’s continued contributions and hinted at a possible return to a government role. Despite not holding a government position like previous deputy leaders, Powell is expected to participate in a political Cabinet meeting early in the New Year to discuss Labour’s election strategy with the Prime Minister’s team.