Long-Bailey through to Labour final round
REBECCA Long-Bailey has become the third contender to make it through to the final stage of the Labour leadership contest after being nominated by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU).
The shadow business secretary’s name will appear on the ballot paper after she secured the backing from a third trade union, joining Sir Keir Starmer and Lisa Nandy in making it to the last round.
The FBU’s nomination means the left-wing candidate has the support of three Labour affiliates, including at least two unions, which amounts to at least 5% of affiliate members.
She had previously received nominations from Unite and the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers’ Union.
Ms Long-Bailey thanked the unions who backed her and said: “As leader, I will unleash our movement, take power back from the gentlemen’s club of Westminster and build a socialism that speaks to people’s hopes and dreams.
“The general election result was devastating, but our policies are popular and it’s clear we must not return to the politics of the past.
“Members need a leader who sticks to their principles and has the record to prove it.
“It’s time for a new generation to lead our party. Together we can rebuild trust and win the next election.”
The FBU said it had decided to back Ms Long-Bailey after writing to each candidate asking for their views on the fire service, the Grenfell Tower inquiry, repealing anti-trade union laws, ending the blockade of Gaza, and Labour Party democracy.