Reeves Backs Burnham for PM Despite Reports of Junior Role

AI Summary

Rachel Reeves has expressed her support for Andy Burnham as the next Prime Minister, despite reports that she may be offered a junior role in his cabinet. Reeves, the current Chancellor, emphasized her commitment to Burnham's leadership while downplaying speculation about her own future role.

Rachel Reeves' Public Endorsement

Rachel Reeves has given her support to Andy Burnham to be the next prime minister, despite reports that she is likely to be moved out of the role of chancellor if he becomes the next Labour leader.

The Event Details

The chancellor told the BBC she and Burnham were friends and did not appear to rule out accepting a more junior cabinet position. “I’m supporting Andy to be prime minister,” she said.

Reeves' Stance on Cabinet Position

Asked about reports that Burnham could offer her a more junior role in his cabinet, Reeves said: “I’m not going to pre-empt the decisions that the new prime minister will make. I’m backing Andy. I think he’d be a great prime minister, but those are his decisions, not mine to make.”

Implications for Labour Leadership

Reeves' support comes after reports that one of Reeves’s top aides has urged some of the UK’s biggest companies and trade associations to lobby Burnham to keep her in the top job at the treasury.

Future Outlook

Speculation about Burnham’s choice as chancellor has grown as the new Makerfield MP’s route to 10 Downing Street has become clearer. The next resident of No 11 could define his time in office, with MPs saying it will give the clearest sign yet of how radical he intends to be.