The shadow Cabinet results threw up some surprises. The most unexpected failure was that of Peter Hain. As a key Ed Miliband backer, it was widely expected he would make it on. Diane Abbott not making the cut was widely expected, she’s not popular with her parliamentary colleagues. But few would have predicted how well Tessa Jowell, who finished 9th, and Caroline Flint, 10th, did.
As predicted, Yvette Cooper topped the poll by a margin—getting 232 votes. John Healey, the housing minister, came in a strong second with 192 votes and Ed Balls was third. At the other end of the table, Liam Byrne secured 19th place with 100 votes
Positive discrimination did the job that it was intended to. Eight women were elected. They will serve alongside Harriet Harman and Rosie Winterton so of the 24 members of the shadow at least 10 will be women.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in