A string of socialists lined up to drag Keir Starmer further to the Left on Tuesday in the race to become Labour's deputy leader.
Six MPs threw their hat in the ring to replace Angela Rayner as nominations opened in the fast-tracked contest.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson – a long-time ally of the Prime Minister – took an early lead on Tuesday night having secured the backing of 44 MPs.
Supporters believe her working-class background and close ties to trade unions could win her support but she appeared to be dismissed by one rival as a nodding dog candidate.
Ms Phillipson will be challenged by sacked Cabinet colleague Lucy Powell, who previously apologised for dismissing public concern about grooming gangs as a 'dog whistle' issue.
