Lucy Powell was sacked by Prime Minister Keir Starmer as part of a broader government reshuffle following Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner's resignation over a tax error. This reshuffle involved the removal of several ministers, including Powell, who served as Leader of the House of Commons since the Labour Party's significant electoral victory in July 2024. The reshuffle aimed to reset the government after the controversy surrounding Rayner, and Powell's departure was also influenced by her unpopularity within the party and some disagreements with Starmer, including comments she made about sensitive issues. After being sacked, Powell emerged as a candidate in the Labour deputy leadership contest, positioning herself as a representative for those seeking change within the party, and some insiders believe her removal may have strengthened her position among party members and MPs.
