Labour's deputy leader, Lucy Powell, has announced a significant strategic shift for the party, moving to an "incumbency first" model ahead of the next general election. The move prioritises protecting sitting MPs over targeting new constituencies.
Training MPs as Community Leaders
In the first parliamentary Labour party (PLP) meeting of the year, Powell outlined plans to support MPs in becoming stronger "leaders in their communities." Labour HQ will offer workshops to teach MPs how to take credit for government policies benefiting their constituents, such as frozen rail fares, high street funding, and the extended warm home discount.
"It's a big switch organisationally and politically," a Labour source confirmed. The initiative, led by Powell and party chair Anna Turley, aims to help MPs share best practices and gain political benefit from the government's work, which they have so far struggled to claim.
A Call for Unity Behind Starmer
Powell also delivered a stark message to MPs, urging them to cease internal conflicts. This comes amid ongoing discontent with Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership. She warned that "dark forces" do not want the Labour administration to succeed and stressed the collective need for the government to prove progressive politics works.
"We all need this government, led by Keir, to succeed... Our fortunes hang or fall together. Politics is a team sport," Powell stated. She argued that failure would only benefit the Reform party and harm local communities.
Overtures to the Backbenches
The strategy forms part of broader efforts by Labour HQ and Number 10 to placate disgruntled backbenchers and bolster Starmer's position. In recent weeks, MPs have been invited to receptions at the Prime Minister's Chequers retreat and publicly praised by the Chancellor and Downing Street for their campaigning efforts.
Powell used the PLP meeting to frame the government's narrative, highlighting achievements like better workers' rights, renter protections, and tackling child poverty. She emphasised the need to communicate these successes more directly to the public.
"We've got a big argument to make and win," Powell said. "That Labour is on the side of ordinary people addressing the cost of living crisis, rewiring the country in the interests of the many not the few... We don't get Labour governments very often."
