Reeves is helping Burnham prepare to be PM as she fights to keep job

Rachel Reeves is helping Andy Burnham prepare for government despite being widely tipped to be sacked or demoted if as expected the former mayor becomes Prime Minister, The i Paper understands.

There is mounting speculation that Burnham is planning to install his own pick for the Treasury to mark a break with the Keir Starmer regime after two years of dwindling popularity for Labour.

But it is understood Reeves is helping with the handover to ensure there is stability and continuity in the economy regardless of whoever becomes chancellor next, The i Paper understands. The Chancellor is also keen to protect her legacy, should she lose her job.

Supporters of the current Chancellor, and even some allies of the new Labour MP for Makerfield, believe Reeves should remain in place to provide economic stability and to reassure the markets.

Shorts