Balls 'on brink of crashing out'

Sunday, 25 July 2010 12:00 AM

By politics.co.uk staff

The future of Ed Balls' leadership bid is overshadowed by uncertainty this weekend amid speculation he could withdraw from the race.

The former children, schools and families secretary, who has been closely associated with ex-prime minister Gordon Brown throughout his political career, was thought to be considering abandoning his bid.

It follows disappointment for Mr Balls after the Unite union's political committee voted by 24 votes to four to back rival Ed Miliband instead.

The Mail on Sunday reported Mr Miliband had allegedly emailed the committee with a pledge of pro-union legislation and the promise: "To return to power we must put the era of New Labour behind us."

Nominations close tomorrow from local Labour parties. Former foreign secretary David Miliband leads with over 150 nominations, with Ed Miliband close behind with over 140 nominations.

The latter's leadership campaign received another boost today when Labour's former Welsh first minister Rhodri Morgan, a well-respected figure within the party, endorsed him.

"Ed Miliband is emerging from this leadership contest as the man capable of uniting Labour as a fighting force in opposition," he told the Wales on Sunday newspaper.

"We need a leader capable not only of being prime minister, but also someone who is ready for a long haul in opposition, and Ed is that man. He can energise the troops."

If Mr Balls withdraws from the race it will be increasingly viewed as a two-horse race between the Miliband brothers.

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