Yvette Cooper has emerged as a surprise contender to replace Rachel Reeves as Chancellor as Ed Miliband’s hopes of securing the Treasury hang in the balance, The i Paper has learned.
With less than a week until Andy Burnham unveils his first Cabinet, the battle for the second most powerful job in government has intensified amid growing speculation that Reeves will be moved out of the Treasury into a lesser role.
As The i Paper exclusively revealed last month, Miliband is prepared to soften his stance on North Sea gas drilling to smooth his path to No 11 after fierce criticism from trade unions and business leaders over Labour’s energy policy.
Shorts
The choice of Chancellor will likely be fundamental to the success or failure of Burnham’s government, with no final decision thought to be yet taken. Choosing a Cabinet is also a key test for Burnham, as he tries to fill posts with the most competent ministers, but also ensure he keeps the various factions of the Labour Party happy, as well has his allies in government.
