LABOUR’s leadership was accused of wasting an opportunity to unite the party yesterday by pushing for the appointment of David Evans as Labour’s new general secretary.

The national executive committee (NEC) chose Mr Evans, who worked for Labour under Tony Blair, for the role on Tuesday.

He is seen as close to leader Sir Keir Starmer. He succeeds Jennie Formby, an ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who stepped down last month after two years in the role.