Lucy Powell, the deputy leader of the Labour Party, has cautioned against fueling speculation about Keir Starmer’s leadership, urging individuals to refrain from such discussions as the party gears up for crucial elections in May.
Speaking to The Mirror in an interview, Powell expressed confidence that the polls will narrow, emphasizing the importance of Labour being prepared for the electoral challenges in 2026. The upcoming elections in various regions, including England, Scotland, and Wales, are anticipated to be contentious, with some Labour MPs privately contemplating Starmer’s future if the May elections result in a setback for the party.
Powell discouraged excessive introspection and deliberation on hypothetical scenarios, stressing the need for focusing on the imminent electoral choices rather than engaging in internal political debates. She emphasized the responsibility of MPs and leaders to prioritize the real issues at hand and not distract from the critical decisions facing voters in the upcoming elections.
Regarding the May elections, Powell highlighted the significance of the choice between supporting Labour or endorsing Reform councils, underscoring the tangible impacts on services and local communities in England, Scotland, and Wales. She noted that as voters shift their focus to these substantive issues, there is a potential for the electoral landscape to shift in Labour’s favor, but emphasized the necessity for the party to actively engage in the electoral battle.
Powell, who succeeded Angela Rayner as Deputy Leader in October following her dismissal from the Cabinet reshuffle, lamented Rayner’s departure as a significant loss. She acknowledged the ongoing contributions and efforts of Rayner, expressing support for a potential return to a prominent role within the government.
Unlike some previous deputy leaders during Labour’s tenure in power, Powell does not hold a government position but is expected to participate in a political Cabinet meeting early in the New Year to discuss Labour’s election strategy. Reflecting on past mistakes in 2025, Powell emphasized the need for Labour to demonstrate a strong sense of purpose and alignment with the interests of the public.
In terms of future strategies, Powell stressed the importance of addressing the cost of living crisis and economic disparities to win back voters in 2026. She emphasized the party’s commitment to rectifying longstanding economic inequalities and prioritizing the well-being of ordinary working families across the country.