Liverpool MP Paula Barker has withdrawn from Labour’s deputy leader race.
Barker was one of two Merseyside politicians to signal their intentions to succeed Angela Rayner on Tuesday alongside Birkenhead counterpart Alison McGovern.
The representative for Wavertree since 2019 had been motivated to stand for the position due to the ‘huge challenge from the populist right’ to the party of power.
But Barker has now confirmed that she is now opting out of the running ahead of Thursday’s deadline and endorsed Manchester MP Lucy Powell’s nomination.
She said: “I have decided to step back from the race for deputy leader this morning. It has been such an honour to speak to so many wonderful colleagues throughout this process.
“The Labour Party is a broad church, filled with talented and dedicated voices that deserve to be listened to.
“I have always believed we work best as a party when every voice is respected, and we don’t pursue the endless dominance of one faction over another.
“Our members, our voters, and the people we represent expect us to bring the whole movement with us – not just parts of it.
“The next deputy leader must listen to the concerns of every section of our Party and not be afraid to bring those challenges to the government.
“Being a good team doesn’t mean we can’t be honest – criticism of government, when it’s constructive, makes us stronger.
“We mustn’t shy away from healthy debate, which is why I think this deputy leadership race would be better with the possibility of three candidates to choose from.
“Finally, I want to thank all my wonderful colleagues for their nominations and support and all the members of our party who have sent me messages of support, It really has been so humbling.
“It has been wonderful to stand alongside such strong women, I wish them all the best going forward. I will be nominating my colleague and neighbour, Lucy Powell for deputy leader.
“I believe she can be constructive friend to the government and understands the importance of listening to all our members and unifying the party.”