Compressed timetable and worries about potentially toxic atmosphere narrows field to replace Angela RaynerLouise Haigh: I’m not running for Labour deputy leader. I want the freedom to fight for an economic resetA series of senior female Labour MPs have dropped out of contention to replace Angela Rayner as the party’s deputy leader, as a compressed timetable for nominations and worries about a potentially toxic atmosphere narrowed the field.Bridget Phillipson, the education secretary, is expected to enter the race, where she would be seen as a de facto Downing Street choice, potentially pitting her against Emily Thornberry, who would position herself as a voice for backbenchers. Continue reading...