McDonnell urged to step aside as nominations deadline approaches

By Alex Smith / @alexsmith1982

John McDonnell is reportedly being urged to stand down by supporters of Diane Abbott, with the deadline for nominations now just a day away.

The Guardian reports:

“Supporters of Diane Abbott are urging fellow backbencher MP John McDonnell to stand down from the Labour leadership race to give the left a greater chance of having a candidate on the final ballot.”

McDonnell has the support of 10 Labour MPs, while Diane Abbott has the support of just 8, but McDonnell’s comments yesterday that he would “assassinate Thatcher” have been seized on by Abbott’s supporters who wish to see her on the ballot and believe it is unlikely that both she and McDonnell will make the cut. There are also loud calls for the final shortlist to include a woman.

After the PLP hustings last night, many of the remaining 60 or so MPs will nominate their preferred candidates today.