Andy Burnham picks former Blair minister James Purnell as chief of staff (opens original article in a new tab)

Andy Burnham has selected James Purnell, a former Blair minister, as his chief of staff as he prepares for government. Purnell, who resigned from Gordon Brown's government in 2009, is set to return to Downing Street if negotiations conclude successfully. Burnham is poised to become prime minister following support from Wes Streeting.

• Andy Burnham has chosen James Purnell as his chief of staff.
• Purnell previously served as work and pensions secretary and resigned in 2009.
• Burnham is expected to become prime minister after winning support from Wes Streeting.