Darren Jones, a key ally of outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has endorsed Andy Burnham to succeed him, saying he was reassured by the former mayor’s economic plans and believes financial markets would accept limited additional borrowing if supported by a credible strategy for growth.
Jones, who serves as chief secretary under Starmer, said he had held extensive discussions with Burnham on economic policy after the Labour leadership frontrunner sparked concern among investors last year with remarks suggesting Britain should stop being in “hock to the bond markets”.
The comments attracted criticism at the time, although Burnham later said they had been misrepresented.
Speaking to Sky News, Jones said there was scope for a future government to borrow more, provided it was done responsibly and formed part of a broader economic plan.
“We talked … a lot about what he (Burnham) was thinking on the economy and what my thoughts were on that, and some of the potential ways forward for the new government,” he said.
Asked whether Burnham would increase borrowing, Jones said markets, trade unions and Labour supporters would support targeted borrowing aimed at boosting economic growth.
Jones said there was “room to borrow a little bit more” but stressed that Burnham had not presented specific spending proposals during their discussions.
His endorsement comes as Labour prepares for a leadership transition following Starmer’s announcement that he would step down after months of mounting pressure over poor polling numbers and disappointing local election results.
Starmer confirmed on Monday that he would resign, triggering a leadership contest scheduled to begin on July 9.
Burnham is currently the only candidate to declare his intention to run, raising expectations within Labour that he could secure the leadership unopposed and become prime minister by mid July.
If appointed, Burnham would become Britain’s seventh prime minister in a decade.
Jones expressed confidence that Burnham’s leadership was all but certain.
“Andy Burnham is going to be the next prime minister. And if there was a contest of Labour Party members, he would win,” Jones said.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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