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The Labour Party is poised to reveal its fresh deputy chief this Saturday, with polling data pointing to the Manchester Central MP leading the education secretary as balloting closed on Thursday.

The Day's Schedule of Events

Below is the political schedule for today, according to the PA news agency:

• 10:00 AM: Labour’s new deputy leader will be announced in central London. Addresses are expected following the announcement from the winner and the PM.
• 1pm: Demonstrators from opposing groups are expected to descend on separate areas of London after police prohibited Ukip supporters from gathering in Whitechapel due to fears of serious disorder.
• Saturday: Counting starts to reveal the new head of state of the Irish Republic.

Meanwhile, Epping Forest MP Neil Hudson is conducting the media interviews for the Conservatives.

Campaign Key Points and Contender Positions

Throughout the campaign, Powell frequently mentioned mistakes made by the party on matters such as the winter heating payments. In a final message to supporters, she appeared to criticise a command and control culture within government, stating that unquestioning compliance was a dereliction of duty.

Should Powell does emerge victorious, the result is likely to be seen as a rebuke to Keir Starmer's governance from party members.

Keir Starmer has recently faced a difficult week, marked by a dispute over the grooming gangs inquiry and a defeat in the Welsh assembly by-election in the Caerphilly seat.

Labour’s struggles in the polls have sparked doubts among backbenchers about Starmer’s leadership.

Powell has emphasized that she aims to help Keir and our government to prosper but also informed followers the party must change how it operates to improve the situation.

In contrast, Bridget Phillipson, regarded as the prime minister's preferred candidate, has highlighted unity, cautioning that choosing her rival would result in party disputes and divisions that could return the Labour back to being in opposition.

Additional News Highlights

• Reducing the annual cash Isa allowance may not persuade savers to invest in stocks but could increase home loan rates, lawmakers have warned the finance minister.
• A heavy defeat for the Labour Party in next May’s local elections could signal the termination of Keir Starmer’s premiership, MPs have said, after the party experienced a crushing defeat in Wales.
• Rishi Sunak was the only politician sent a testimonial by the deputy national security adviser implicated in a controversy over the dismissal of a case against two UK nationals accused of spying for China.

The result of the deputy leadership election is expected to be announced at 10:00 AM British Summer Time.