Chris Mason: Another Starmer critic gets promotion as Sarwar joins Burnham government
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar is joining Andy Burnham's government, marking the promotion of a key figure who previously called for Sir Keir Starmer's resignation. The move highlights the shifting political landscape within the UK Labour Party.
Why it matters
This illustrates the internal power dynamics and political realignment occurring within the UK government following a leadership transition.
Image source, PA Media By Chris Mason Political editor Published 37 minutes ago The imminent appointment of the Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar to Andy Burnham's government, via a seat in the House of Lords, sees the promotion of another key figure in the downfall of Sir Keir Starmer as prime minister.
When Sarwar said publicly, back in February, that Sir Keir should stand down, it was a moment of colossal jeopardy for the now former prime minister.
It looked, briefly, like it might bring about an immediate and irrevocable collapse in his authority. Then, one after another, cabinet ministers posted their support for him on social media.
As I wrote at the time , missives of public loyalty from cabinet ministers towards a prime minister shouldn't be newsworthy and they only become so when the opposite seems feasible.
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