Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy noticeFormer home secretary Alan Johnson has backed Bridget Phillipson to be Labour’s deputy leader. The ballot for the contest between Education Secretary Ms Phillipson and former Commons leader Lucy Powell opens on Wednesday, with the result announced on October 25. Mr Johnson said Ms Phillipson was “one of Labour’s star performers” who would “help tell a better story” about the party’s achievements. Mr Johnson, a former education secretary, said Ms Phillipson had “excelled” in “one of the most difficult cabinet roles”.