Politics Weekly UK Starmer’s Mandelson mess and deputy leadership damage
Sep 10, 2025
Louise Haigh, Labour MP for Sheffield Healy and former Transport Secretary, dives deep into the Labour Party's current turmoil following Angela Rayner's resignation. She discusses the burgeoning tensions as the race for deputy leadership unfolds. The conversation also touches on Keir Starmer’s strategies for overcoming public skepticism and political challenges. Additionally, the podcast scrutinizes the ethical controversies surrounding former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the impact of austerity policies on Labour’s future and public trust.
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Deputy Role Risked Being Symbolic
- Louise Haigh warns the deputy leader role may be hollow if Downing Street appoints a de facto deputy.
- She stayed on the backbenches to influence policy and back Lucy Powell to represent members internally.
Reform Fiscal Rules For Long-Term Value
- Reform the Office for Budget Responsibility to measure long-term social and productivity impacts.
- Ask the OBR to evaluate lifetime returns of policies so decisions avoid short-termist cuts.
Short-Term Cuts Create Long-Term Costs
- Haigh argues austerity increased debt and hollowed out services instead of funding investment.
- She says cutting now often creates higher long-term costs for the public and economy.