Tony Blair is backing Chuka Umunna to be the next Labour leader, the former prime minister's friends have revealed, in an intervention that will set the battle for succession alight. Several Labour frontbenchers are preparing their leadership campaigns in the event that Ed Miliband fails to secure victory next May. But being anointed by the party's most successful leader could be either a blessing or a curse for Mr Umunna, the shadow Business Secretary, given how far Mr Blair's popularity in the wider Labour movement has fallen.
The MP for Streatham has repeatedly refused to set out his leadership ambitions and is actively loyal to Mr Miliband. But he speaks regularly to Mr Blair and other New Labour veterans, including Lord Mandelson, Tessa Jowell and Lord Adonis. The former PM sees Mr Umunna as a "natural heir" to his New Labour legacy, said a friend. Since being elevated to the Shadow Cabinet, Mr Umunna has stuck to his business brief, but in recent weeks has been more outspoken on immigration in the face of the Ukip surge. His strident defence of the benefits of immigration to the UK has drawn further admiration from Mr Blair who is in total agreement, said a source.
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