David Miliband could quit politics, opt for diplomatic assignment

LONDON - Speculation is mounting in British political circles that defeated Labour leadership challenger David Miliband could quit frontline politics rather than serve under his brother Ed.

he Shadow Foreign Secretary stayed away from the new leader’s first address to Labour MPs in Manchester, suggesting that all was not well in opposition ranks.

The Daily Express quoted sources, as saying that David Miliband, 45, was in a quandary about whether he could accept a subordinate shadow cabinet role under his 40-year-old younger brother.

In a conciliatory gesture, the leader yesterday signalled he could effectively pick his post.

“He needs time to think about the contribution he can make,” said Ed Miliband, “and we’ve got shadow cabinet elections next week, so there is time for that.”

It is believed that he will press his brother to become Shadow Chancellor but sources indicated David would resist the offer.

Party insiders believe he would prefer to continue in his current job for a year before making a dignified exit to a diplomatic post, possibly in the US. (ANI)