Labor Frontbench Sees Northern Exodus Following Starmer Reshuffle
LIVERPOOL – A important reshuffle by Labour leader Keir Starmer has sparked criticism and accusations of a “purge of northerners,” as several prominent figures from the region were removed from their frontbench positions. The changes, announced this week, included the sacking of Lucy Powell (Manchester North) as leader of the house, Jim McMahon (Oldham West) from the housing department, and Wajid Khan, a peer from Burnley, as faith minister.
The sweeping changes follow criticism from Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who publicly questioned Starmer’s party management on the BBC’s Sunday with laura Kuenssberg. Alongside Powell, McMahon, and Khan, Justin Madders (Ellesmere Port) was removed from his role focusing on employment rights, Mike Kane (Wythenshawe and Sale East) departed as aviation minister, and Maria Eagle (Liverpool Garston) was sacked from the ministry of defense. Deputy Leader Angela Rayner also resigned from her position.
The scale of the reshuffle and the concentration of departures from northern constituencies have raised concerns within the party, particularly ahead of the Labour Party conference scheduled to take place in Liverpool this month. The perceived imbalance in representation could fuel internal tensions and complicate Starmer’s efforts to present a united front as the party seeks to capitalize on current polling leads.The upcoming conference is now expected to be a key moment for addressing these concerns and reaffirming Labour’s commitment to representing all regions of the UK.
