MPs urge Darren Jones to run against Andy Burnham for Labour leadership

Darren Jones, the chief secretary to the prime minister, is being urged by MPs to run against Andy Burnham to spark a Labour leadership contest and avoid a “coronation”. The MP for Bristol North West is understood to be reluctant to run but sources said he would look at Burnham’s economic plans, including plans for public control of utilities, before deciding. Supporters of Jones told the Guardian they had concerns about the possibility of Ed Miliband becoming chancellor under Burnham, and whether that might cause a negative market reaction. Burnham is considering appointing Miliband as chancellor but has not made a final decision. Sources said Burnham was aware of the potential risks, with business and unions opposed to the move, but could be prepared to make the argument about why a bolder approach was needed. The new Makerfield MP, who is the strong favourite to become leader without a contest, is understood to be planning a series of speeches to set out his policies, including on the economy. He has stressed that he will stick to Rachel Reeves’s fiscal rules on spending and debt. Labour MPs who had been loyal to Keir Starmer have been organising for a potential run for Jones – who is also the chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster and minister for intergovernmental relations – since last Friday in case Starmer resigned. …