Miliband becomes frontrunner for chancellor after major power move | Politics | News

Ed Miliband has received a major boost after winning the backing of a senior union boss in his race to become Andy Burnham’s chancellor. It comes just days after Mr Burnham announced he would be the next prime minister following the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer.

The former Manchester mayor quickly emerged as the leader to replace Sir Keir, even before winning the Makerfield by-election. Speculation is rife as to who the wannabe PM would bring into his cabinet, with Mr Miliband seen as the favorite due to his close ties to the Burnham campaign.

Now the boss of Unison, the country’s largest union, has thrown his weight behind the Energy Minister. Andrea Egan is said to want Mr Miliband over former health secretary Wes Streeting, a rival on the right of the party.

The so-called “King of the North” will give a speech in his beloved Manchester on Monday, where he is expected to outline his economic plans. Commentators say the choice of chancellor will likely be his most important decision.

Ms Egan said: “Andy Burnham has a historic opportunity to rebuild our country in the interests of workers and communities, but that chance will be wasted if his government consists of politicians determined to continue the same failed approach.

“We need a chancellor who will reform the economy and invest appropriately to improve the lives of the majority. Of those reported as candidates, only Ed Miliband can enact the kinds of policies that unions and our members urgently need.”

Mr Burnham is said to be in the process of assembling his senior team as it looks increasingly unlikely he will face a leadership challenge. Labour’s ruling body confirmed on Thursday that if there is a single candidate, a new leader will be announced on July 17.

But there are reportedly attempts to stop Mr Miliband. A senior union official told the Financial Times: “Discussions are continuing to stop Ed Miliband. There is a GMB-Unite axis on this issue.”