Baroness Harriet Harman has said Labour’s next deputy leader must be a woman.
Her comments come as the party prepares to replace Angela Rayner, who resigned last week after an investigation revealed she had underpaid stamp duty on a house purchase.
Harman, who was deputy leader from 2007 to 2015, told BBC Radio that the role should go to a woman outside London.
Labour MP Lewis Atkinson also backed the idea, saying the party must represent all regions of the UK.
The National Executive Committee confirmed that nominations will open on Tuesday and close Thursday evening.
A hustings for MPs will follow, with members voting between October 8 and October 23. The winner will be announced on October 25.
Also, Sir Keir Starmer will not endorse a candidate, and it is not guaranteed that the winner will also be given a government job.
David Lammy has already been appointed Deputy Prime Minister and will remain in post regardless of the deputy leadership contest.
Several names are being discussed as possible contenders, Louise Haigh, former Transport Secretary, who has called for Labour to scrap strict fiscal rules.
Stella Creasy, who says the party needs a more open debate.Lisa Nandy, Culture Secretary, considering a run.
Rosena Allin-Khan, who came second to Rayner in 2020.Emily Thornberry, who has criticised Starmer’s leadership and may decide soon.
Ed Miliband, Energy Secretary, popular with members. Shabana Mahmood, the new Home Secretary, has ruled herself out, saying her priority is border security.
Some MPs on the Left, including Dawn Butler and Richard Burgon, warned against a rushed contest that could favour Starmer’s allies.
They called for a fair process that allows proper debate.
Read also: David Lammy replaced Angela Rayner as Deputy Prime Minister
