Andy Burnham supporters divided over who should be his chancellor

Supporters of Andy Burnham are divided over who he should choose as chancellor if he reaches Downing Street, triggering a clear briefing war between backers of Wes Streeting and Ed Miliband. Some advisors to the Makerfield MP want him to select Streeting to reassure business and the fossil fuel industry, arguing it would signal restraint. Others urge Burnham to pick Miliband, describing him as more aligned with “radical” policy ideas and better positioned to push back against a reluctant Whitehall. The role of chancellor is portrayed as a defining indicator of Burnham’s governing direction, with MPs saying it would show how far he intends to go. The article adds that Burnham is conscious of investor reassurance after previous comments about the UK being “in hock” to bond markets. It also notes his team has spoken with Jim O’Neill, former Goldman Sachs chief economist, about serving as chief economic adviser, though no decision has been finalized. Other potential picks mentioned include Yvette Cooper, Miatta Fahnbulleh, Darren Jones, and John Healey.