Overview
- Lucy Powell urged a reset in party strategy and called for restoring the whip to some welfare rebels, arguing members want a stronger independent voice at the top.
- Bridget Phillipson highlighted her Cabinet seat as practical leverage to deliver policy, pledging to drive down child poverty this Parliament and warning members against renewed internal strife.
- Powell alleged underhand anonymous briefings from her rival’s camp, while Phillipson described the contest as well‑fought and rejected as entirely false claims she withheld EHRC guidance.
- Voting closes on Thursday with the result due on Saturday 25 October, as Powell is widely viewed as the membership favourite and Phillipson carries endorsements from major trade unions.
- Party sources caution that the outcome could deepen factional tensions and complicate relations with No 10, with low member turnout and union influence seen as key variables.