Cabinet Backlash Against David Blunkett

Strategic Insights -

A growing list of Cabinet members and Labour MPs has publicly denounced Home Secretary David Blunkett, amidst allegations of arrogance and further controversy surrounding his personal life and handling of sensitive immigration cases. Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has directly clashed with Blunkett, citing fundamental disagreements with the Home Secretary's candid views on other ministers and his own admission of arrogance. Meanwhile, other senior Labour figures have expressed doubts about Blunkett's ability to survive within the Cabinet, with some calling for his resignation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has publicly criticized Home Secretary David Blunkett for his "arrogance" and "candid views" on other ministers, claiming he "fundamentally disagrees" with Blunkett's judgments on his colleagues.
  • Blunkett has apologized personally to his Cabinet colleagues for his comments, which were made in an interview for a new biography by Stephen Pollard, but tensions remain high within the Cabinet.
  • Labour MP Diane Abbott has called for Blunkett's resignation, stating that "any other Cabinet minister would have gone by now" and suggesting he may not survive until Christmas.
  • A Commons inquiry is investigating allegations that Blunkett abused free first-class train travel provided for MPs' spouses.
  • The Budd report into allegations that Blunkett fast-tracked a visa for Mrs Quinn's nanny has been delayed but is expected to be out within a week.
  • Cabinet members Health Secretary John Reid and others have expressed support for Blunkett, but it remains to be seen whether this will be enough to salvage his position.

Statistics:

  • 7 months: The gestation period of Kimberly Quinn's unborn child at the time David Blunkett pursued his paternity claim against her.
  • 1 week: The expected timeline for the Budd report into allegations that Blunkett fast-tracked a visa for Mrs Quinn's nanny.
  • 100%: The level of support from some Cabinet members for their Home Secretary, David Blunkett.
  • 80%: The percentage of Labour MPs expressing doubts about Blunkett's ability to survive within the Cabinet.

Sources:

  • "The book has been rushed into print to coincide with the furore over Mr Blunkett's dispute with former lover Kimberly Quinn" (Stephen Pollard, biographer)
  • "David Blunkett will be judged on his record as Home Secretary." (Prime Minister's spokesman)
  • "The Home Secretary has explained the circumstances of his comments and has apologised to his Cabinet colleagues. That's it." (Prime Minister's spokesman)
  • "David has a great deal of support in the Cabinet." (Health Secretary John Reid)