Burnham to say his government will be ‘unashamedly Labour’ in first speech as party leader – UK politics live

‘Special conference’ to take place at noon where Burnham will be formally announced as Labour leader

This morning the Times has splashed on a story claiming Andy Burnham is facing “a revolt from his core support on the Labour left over his plans to appoint Shabana Mahmood”.

The only MP quoted on the record in the story criticising Mahmood is Rachael Maskell, a prominent leftwinger who is comfortable speaking out against the leadership. She told the paper Ed Miliband would be a better chancellor because he “has Treasury experience and he’s been able to bring our party together around some very difficult issues”. She criticised Mahmood’s record on immigration and said Mahmood “hasn’t got the level of skill and experience to provide the leadership that is needed in the Treasury”.

A senior ally of Burnham said: “Shabana has no sense of the economics. It’s just not something she’s ever spoken about. She’s not collaborative. It’s not clear how she would drive the machine.”

Another Labour MP said: “It’s baffling a lot of people because nobody knows what her views are on the economy. Does she even have any? She’s never done a speech or intervention. It’s just absolutely bizarre and I can’t see her as a sensible appointment.