Rayner denies forcing Starmer's hand on Diane Abbott
The political journalist, Jennifer McKiernan, who writes for BBC News under the Twitter handle @_JennyMcKiernan, composed a segment for her blog.
Angela Rayner, the deputy leader for Labour, has refuted claims that her involvement in the dispute involving long-standing member Diane Abbott led to a modification in the approach taken by the Labour leader.
In May, Ms Abbott was allowed back into the Labour party after being suspended for a long time due to a controversy about race. Many people thought she might not be allowed to try to become a Member of Parliament again for the party.
Sir Keir Starmer said that they haven't decided on anything yet last week, while Ms Rayner voiced that she saw no valid reason why Ms Abbott couldn't take part.
Afterward, Sir Keir mentioned that Ms Abbott had the freedom to run for a certain position, then Rishi Sunak lashed out at him, accusing him of surrendering to his second-in-command.
The head of the Conservative Party, Richard Holden, uploaded a picture of himself and someone else kneeling down to show their support for the Black Lives Matter campaign back in the year 2020.
He alleged on X that Angela Rayner's intention was to show Sir Keir how to submit to her as the first female leader of the Labour party by taking a knee.
Ms Rayner has rejected the idea that her remarks influenced his opinions. She explained to the BBC that Sir Keir has always held an appreciation for Ms Abbott and her lengthy dedication to serving the public.
Ms Rayner acknowledged that the first black female MP trailblazed her way into politics, and when she spoke with Keir about it, he always showed respect. Ms Rayner clarified that her own opinion has no impact on Keir's stance regarding the matter.
She stated: "Keir also has faith in the fact that we are now a different Labor party. He trusts in procedures, and there was a particular process that had to be adhered to, which Keir had no part in.
"That's precisely why Keir made it evident, yet he maintained his admiration for Diane Abbott throughout."
Ms Abbott has announced her plan to participate and succeed in the Labour campaign for the Hackney North and Stoke Newington constituency during the upcoming general election.
The experienced statesman later seemed to share a message on X accusing Sir Keir of spreading falsehoods about the scandal. However, the post was removed immediately.
When questioned, Ms Rayner responded by stating that she lacked knowledge about the particular situation. However, she is confident that Keir Starmer has not told falsehoods regarding Diane Abbott.
She mentioned that she had talked with Ms Abbott before, where she shared with her and Keir their appreciation for the outstanding 37 years of service she has given.
Once the nomination process closes on Friday, the complete lineup of contenders for Hackney North and Stoke Newington will be published on the BBC News website.
