URGENT: Emily Thornberry Abruptly Drops Out of Labour Deputy Leadership Contest

BREAKING NEWS: Emily Thornberry Drops Out of Labour Deputy Leadership Contest Labour MP Emily Thornberry has abruptly withdrawn from the party's deputy leadership contest, citing gratitude for members' support but acknowledging her inability to progress. Thornberry, who chairs the Commons foreign affairs committee, had secured 13 nominations from Labour MPs, far short of the required 80. This decision leaves four candidates in the running: Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, Lucy Powell, Bell Ribeiro-Addy, and Paula Barker. The contest has been marked by a tight deadline for candidates to secure 80 nominations, with Thursday's 5 pm cutoff looming large. Thornberry's withdrawal is a significant blow to her campaign, but the remaining contenders will now focus on securing the necessary support to progress. This development comes as Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson maintains her position as the frontrunner, having secured backing from 116 of her parliamentary colleagues. Lucy Powell remains in second place with 77 nominations. This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Bbc.*