Labour's new rules spark power struggle between Starmer and regional mayors
Labour party introduces strict new guidelines for its regional mayors‚ requiring leadership approval and financial contributions. The move creates friction between **Keir Starmer** and popular local leaders
Labours ruling body has set-up new strict rules for its mayors which many see as a power-grab by the party leadership. The changes (approved on Nov 30th) require regional leaders to get top-level ok before re-election runs and give-up part of their pay to party HQ
Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham – who dont always agree with party leadership on big issues like Middle-East policy and clean-air zones – will need to submit work-progress reports or face consequences. An inside source from the National Executive Committee says: “Its a move to bring mayors to heel; which is not good since theyʼre some of our most liked figures“
This was just an anomaly. Mayors are gradually spreading across the country and every other level of office holder in the party has accountability
The rule-changes come after several public disagreements: last year Khan opposed Starmers stance on Londonʼs ultra-low emission zone while both Khan and Burnham went against party lines by asking for immediate Gaza cease-fire this fall. The mayors also kept their anti-Trump position after his win unlike some party officials
- Submit performance reports
- Get leadership approval for re-election
- Pay portion of salary to party
- Follow strict conduct guidelines
The timing matches with ex-transport chief Louise Haighs exit – after a past conviction came to light – which trade unions say shows how soft-left members are being pushed out. The new rules will affect upcoming mayor positions as Labour plans big regional expansion‚ though party HQ calls it just a structural update
