Some advisers to the MP for Makerfield are pushing for Streeting to be appointed chancellor if Burnham becomes prime minister, aiming to reassure business and the fossil fuel industry. Others insist on Miliband, who could back more radical policies and push back against a reluctant civil service.
The chancellor decision could define Burnham’s tenure should he reach Downing Street. MPs see it as the clearest signal of his political direction. A Burnham adviser told the Guardian: “Who becomes chancellor is absolutely crucial – not so much because of the personalities, but because it gives us the clearest sign of what kind of prime minister he will be.”
Burnham has not yet decided who his chancellor should be. He is aware of the need to reassure investors after previously saying Britain was “in the grip” of bond markets. His team has spoken to Jim O’Neill, the former Goldman Sachs chief economist and Conservative minister, about the role of chief economic adviser – a final decision is pending.
Source: www.theguardian.com
