This is why Keir Starmer fears Ed Milband more than Andy Burnham
The ‘bunker-dwellers’ of No 10 are more worried by the energy secretary’s plans than the mayor of Manchester’s, says John Rentoul...
News Desk
Staff Writer
Published
Jun 19, 2026
Source
The Independent
Analytics
0 0 0

AI Insight:Ed Miliband's plans pose a significant threat to Labour's leadership and policy direction.
The 'bunker-dwellers' of No 10 are more worried by the energy secretary's plans than the mayor of Manchester's, says John Rentoul. This sentiment stems from Ed Miliband's ambitious proposals for the UK's energy sector, which have been met with concern from within the Labour Party. Miliband's plans, aimed at reducing the UK's reliance on fossil fuels, have sparked debate among party leaders, with some fearing they may be too radical and potentially alienate voters. In contrast, Andy Burnham's mayoralty in Manchester has been seen as less of a threat to Labour's leadership, with his policies focusing more on local issues rather than national energy policy. As a result, Keir Starmer and other Labour leaders may be more apprehensive about Miliband's plans, which could potentially upend the party's direction and challenge Starmer's leadership.