Darren Jones said he will not stand in a Labour leadership contest, after saying he had a reassuring conversation with Andy Burnham about Burnham's economic policy plans. Kemi Badenoch remains part of the wider political picture, but Jones's decision removes one possible challenger from the field.
Jones told Sky News: "I’m not." He added: "And, look, I’m flattered by the support from colleagues, whether MPs or other important stakeholders in the party, but, look, it’s not something that I’m going to do."
Darren Jones and Andy Burnham
Jones said Burnham would win if Labour party members chose between candidates. He also said he was confident Burnham understood the fiscal rules and that there was room to borrow a little bit more for specific projects.
That leaves the argument inside Labour focused on two linked issues: economic policy and who would serve as chancellor if Burnham moved into power. Jones said some MPs were concerned about both, and he described Burnham's position as one that still needs more reassurance from the people around him.
Labour MPs and the chancellor
Jones said more than a quarter of Labour MPs were unhappy at the prospect of a Burnham coronation, and he said there were upwards of 100 MPs who had expressed concerns about a contest, economic policy, or both. He also said there were questions about who would emerge as a new chancellor if Burnham replaced Rachel Reeves.
The source said some on the right of the party had reservations about Ed Miliband stepping into the role of chancellor, while Burnham's supporters were divided over whether Wes Streeting or Ed Miliband should take it. A separate Reform pact row has also been put to one side by Kemi Badenoch, but Jones's decision keeps the focus on Labour's leadership arithmetic instead.
Burnham's economic test
Jones said there was room to borrow more for specific projects, but he did not set out what Burnham's plans would be beyond that framework. The practical issue for Labour MPs is whether Burnham will spell out enough detail to calm doubts before any contest hardens around him.
For now, Jones has taken himself out of the race and left the next move with Burnham. If Burnham wants to turn support into something broader, he will need to show how his economic plans fit the fiscal rules and who he would put in charge of the Treasury side of government.
