Angela Rayner's resignation as Labour's deputy leader has set off a contest to fill the influential role, with several prominent figures emerging as potential candidates. The party faces calls to select a woman and someone from outside London, reflecting ongoing debates about representation and regional balance.

Among the frontrunners are Shabana Mahmood, recently appointed Home Secretary, and David Lammy, who was made Deputy Prime Minister after a Cabinet reshuffle. Dame Emily Thornberry has publicly expressed interest, while Richard Burgon and Dawn Butler are being urged to run by supporters on the party's Left. Louise Haigh and Lucy Powell, both with strong trade union ties and northern constituencies, are also tipped as contenders.

Rosena Allin-Khan, who finished second in the last deputy leadership race, may enter the contest again, bringing her experience as an NHS doctor and outspoken views on party leadership. The coming weeks are expected to see a lively and potentially divisive battle as Labour seeks to choose its new deputy leader.