Momentum founder Jon Lansman considering bid to be Labour’s next general secretary

It follows the dramatic resignation last week of Iain McNicol, who has held the top post since 2011

Jon Lansman (Rex )

Momentum founder Jon Lansman is considering a bid for the vacancy of Labour’s next general secretary, The Independent understands.

It follows the dramatic resignation last week of Iain McNicol, who has held the top post since 2011, after he said he wished to “pursue new projects”.

He will be replaced in a fast-tracked process – lasting just three weeks – with his successor being appointed on 20 March by Labour’s governing body, the National Executive Committee (NEC).

But while it is widely expected Mr McNicol will be replaced with a left-winger and an individual loyal to Jeremy Corbyn, the result is far from certain as nominations remain open until the middle of March.

Unite officer Jennie Formby has been the focus of much speculation as Mr McNicol’s successor but sources in the grassroots organisation Momentum expressed dissatisfaction on Monday that the significant post in the Labour party is not directly elected by the membership.

Mr Lansman, a veteran left-winger, and close ally of the Labour leader, is now understood to be considering whether to throw his hat into the ring for the vacancy at Labour HQ. He was elected as a member of the NEC last month.

A source close to Mr Lansman told The Independent: “He has decades of experience in the party, cares deeply about its future and all wings of the party want a range of candidates to apply.”

On Monday, Mr McNicol received rapturous applause as he addressed the weekly private meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) on Monday evening.

He had clashed with Mr Corbyn’s team during the 2016 Labour leadership contest, when he was accused of trying to prevent the party leader getting on the ballot paper a second time by arguing that he should have to seek nominations from MPs.

Announcing his resignation, he said last week: “It’s been an absolute honour and a privilege to serve as general secretary of the Labour Party. I have now decided to move on to pursue new challenges in the service of the Labour Party and wider labour movement.

“It is a hugely exciting time for the Labour Party after we achieved the biggest increase in our vote since 1945 at last year’s general election. I will continue to support Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership and will work closely with him and our whole parliamentary team to take Labour to victory at the next general election.”