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Will Miliband get his chance in 2014?
Last updated at 09:52am on 18.04.07
David Miliband praised Chancellor Gordon Brown
David Miliband's political ambitions were boosted today when friends of Gordon Brown claimed he would serve as Prime Minister for a maximum of seven years.
One of the Chancellor's closest friends was reported as saying he wanted to give the next generation of Labour politicians a chance to take over the reins.
But others close to the Chancellor dismissed the claims today, saying he would "not make the mistake of setting an exit date before he's even got the job".
The Chancellor comfortably survived a confidence motion last night over his handling of occupational pensions with a Government majority of 65, after a stormy six-hour debate.
Labour MPs claimed his performance against shadow chancellor George Osborne proved how formidable a leader he would be after taking over from Mr Blair this summer. However, the Prime Minister did not turn up to vote.
Mr Miliband said that he was "not a candidate" in the race for Labour leader. He would still be under 50 in seven years' time.
Under the plan being discussed, Mr Brown would serve for one full Parliament if he wins the next election.
"Gordon is planning to do three years (to the next election) and four years and then step down," an ally said.
"That is seven years. You only have to look at Thatcher and Blair, who did 10 years."
Reader views (5)
Interesting that Labour thinks that Brown will win the next election never mind the Labour leadership election. Arrogance has surely taken over. Time for a few home truths to hit the Labour leadership.
- Michael, London
Good luck Gord. You're not getting my vote!
- Jay, London
It would be an assumption to say Gordon will last 3 years, let alone 7. A couple of years in to his premiership, with opinion polls at rock bottom, Labour in disarray, elections in a year. They may commit patricide and find someone to take over rather than face an inevitable loss under Brown, though I would think Miliband would try and dodge that poisoned chalice if he could too.
- G, London
It's a big presumption that having taken on the Primeminister's job. Gordon Brown will win a 4th Labour Victory. I don't think that people can stomach the current policies let alone vote for the same in three years time!
- Raminder Bhalla, Northolt
No one wants to stand against Gordon in case they win and have to suffer the humiliation of losing the next election.
- Trevor Roll, London
