New deputy leader says Labour not bold enough

LABOUR'S new deputy leader Lucy Powell addressed a party in crisis — delivering stinging criticism of Sir Keir Starmer’s Government — in her first speech since replacing Angela Rayner.

- By David Williamson CHIEF POLITICAL COMMENTATOR

She said Reform UK’s Nigel Farage had run away with the “political megaphone” and said people believe the Government has not been “bold enough” in delivering change so far.

In a clear shot across the bows, Ms Powell also warned against a shift to the Right, emphasising that Labour “can’t out-Reform Reform”.

Ms Powell was sacked from the Cabinet last month yet won 54% of the vote to defeat her rival, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson.

The race was triggered by Ms Rayner’s resignation when she admitted she had not paid the full stamp duty she owed on a new flat.