Senior Labour staff quit ahead of new General Secretary hire as Corbynistas hijack party
GETTY Jennie Formby is a controversial figure
Six high-profile party staffers have resigned in protest over the pick. Director of Governance John Stolliday and Director of Policy and Research Simon Jackson are among those leaving. Ms Formby, a Unite official, goes up against former NUT leader Christine Blower for the post. She has the support of Jeremy Corbyn, Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell and other senior party figures.
It comes amid a slew of resignations and just weeks after Iain McNicol dramatically quit as General Secretary after seven years in the job. Emilie Oldknow - once tipped to be his successor - and Patrick Heneghan, the former elections chief, also quit in recent months. In an email to staff, Mr Stolliday said: “I have been honoured to work under four party leaders - including two Prime Ministers - as well as Ed and Jeremy in opposition, and also Harriet as interim leader who has done so much for our Party and movement across the years. “I want to thank you all for the support, kindness, patience and friendship you have shown to me over so many years and leave knowing that the Labour party is well set to advance at the next general election, whenever that happens.”
GETTY Jennie is backed by Corbyn