Tony Blair gives Shabana Mahmood stamp of approval amid Labour leadership speculation
Tony Blair effectively endorses MP as future Labour leader
- Tony Blair has effectively endorsed Shabana Mahmood as a future Labour leader, praising her as "brilliant" and "impressive" during a joint public appearance at a Tony Blair Institute event.
- Mr Blair commended Ms Mahmood's "radical" style and the "political philosophy" behind her immigration crackdown, comparing it to his own approach when in power.
- Ms Mahmood used the platform to deliver a personal and political manifesto, highlighting her determination to overcome social media abuse as a "brown Muslim woman".
- She also said that strong immigration controls are supported by diverse communities and are necessary to maintain public trust and fairness.
- The event comes amid speculation that Ms Mahmood is a frontrunner to potentially succeed Sir Keir Starmer.