Harriet Harman has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to repair relations with Labour figures removed from government who were closely associated with Sir Keir Starmer, including Darren Jones. Her intervention highlights concerns that the new administration could deepen internal divisions at a time when it needs party unity to deliver its programme.

Burnham’s reshuffle removed several prominent Starmer allies from frontline roles after he succeeded Sir Keir as Labour leader and prime minister. Jones has since publicly questioned how Burnham’s proposed cut to VAT on energy bills would be funded, underlining the continuing policy and political tensions within Labour.