Angela Rayner Backs Burnham's Devolution Plans Amid Cabinet Speculation
Angela Rayner has publicly endorsed Andy Burnham's vision to shift power from Westminster to local town halls, fueling speculation about her potential role in his Cabinet. The former deputy prime minister, cleared by HMRC earlier this year over a tax dispute, is reportedly eager to return to frontline government as Burnham prepares to enter 10 Downing Street within weeks.
In a speech in central London last night, Rayner stated: "The country needs a much deeper cultural change, and the scale of that challenge can’t be underestimated. Because the institutions of central government are unfortunately part of the problem. We have the worst combination of micro-management and control from the centre, without the resource or focus to make it effective."
Rayner Criticises Starmer and Warns Against Caution
Rayner also criticised Sir Keir Starmer for lacking boldness, saying: "By avoiding structural change, we risk confirming the right-wing populists’ narrative: that ‘the establishment can only do more of the same’. When the British people voted in a Labour Government just two years ago, they voted not just against a Tory government that did not stand up for their interests but for political change that touched their lives."
She warned that Labour cannot defeat Nigel Farage's Reform UK "with caution". Her comments come after Burnham outlined his devolution proposals in a speech on Monday.
Poll: Should Burnham Appoint Rayner to His Cabinet?
With Burnham expected to become prime minister later this month, questions remain over who will join his top team. Do you think Andy Burnham should give Angela Rayner a Cabinet role? Have your say in our poll below and let us know more in the comments section.
