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Labour is ready to reveal its new deputy chief this Saturday, with polls suggesting the Manchester Central MP in front of Bridget Phillipson as balloting concluded on Thursday.

The Day's Political Agenda

Here is the political schedule for today, according to the news schedule:

• 10am: Labour’s new deputy leader is set to be revealed in central London. Speeches are expected following the announcement from the winner and the prime minister.
• 1pm: Demonstrators from opposing groups are likely to descend on separate areas of the capital after police prohibited Ukip supporters from assembling in an East London area due to fears of serious disorder.
• Today: Vote counting starts to reveal the new head of state of the Irish Republic.

Meanwhile, Epping Forest MP Neil Hudson is on the morning media rounds for the Tory party.

Election Highlights and Contender Positions

During the election race, Powell frequently referred to mistakes made by the Labour Party on issues such as the winter fuel allowance. In a closing statement to backers, she appeared to criticise a top-down approach within government, stating that unquestioning compliance was a dereliction of responsibility.

If Powell wins, the result is likely to be seen as a criticism to Keir Starmer's governance from party members.

Keir Starmer has already endured a difficult week, marked by a row over the grooming gangs inquiry and a defeat in the Senedd byelection in the Caerphilly seat.

The party's difficulties in the polls have sparked questions among MPs about Starmer’s leadership.

Powell has stressed that she wants to help Keir and our government to succeed but also told supporters the party must change how it functions to improve the situation.

In contrast, Bridget Phillipson, seen as Number 10's favored choice, has highlighted unity, warning that choosing her opponent would result in party disputes and divisions that could lead the party back to opposition.

Additional Political Headlines

• Reducing the annual cash Isa allowance may not persuade investors to switch to shares but could increase mortgage costs, MPs have cautioned the finance minister.
• A heavy defeat for Labour in next May’s local elections could signal the termination of Keir Starmer’s premiership, MPs have stated, after the Labour suffered a crushing defeat in its Welsh heartland.
• Rishi Sunak was the sole MP sent a testimonial by the deputy national security adviser involved in a controversy over the dismissal of a legal case against two British men alleged of spying for China.

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