Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell said Ed Miliband would be a good choice for chancellor.
She added his experience shows he is fit for the role.
Powell pointed out that talk about Andy Burnham becoming chancellor is a distraction.
She called the speculation 'gossip' that offers no benefit to the party.
Powell, who serves as deputy leader, pointed out the party demands a clear financial approach.
The comment arrived as other senior Labour figures talked about backing Burnham in other posts.
Powell’s remarks were reported by Guido Fawkes on 28 June 2026.