Overview
- A Survation poll of Labour members conducted 17–22 October for LabourList showed Lucy Powell leading Bridget Phillipson by 57% to 40%.
- The contest’s outcome could still be shaped by affiliate ballots after major unions including Usdaw, Unison, GMB, Community, the NUM and the Musicians’ Union endorsed Phillipson.
- Powell has campaigned to act as a full‑time deputy and “shop steward” for members, arguing Labour should stop trying to “out‑Reform Reform” and resist a “command and control” culture.
- Phillipson has argued the deputy should operate at the heart of government, signaling she would retain her Education Secretary role if elected and focusing on party unity and delivery.
- The result will be announced in London on Saturday, following a campaign launched after Angela Rayner’s resignation and a reshuffle in which Powell was removed from the Cabinet.