A Progressive Labour Party backbencher could take on Walter Roban for the position of deputy leader.

It is understood Scott Simmons has considered making a move for the role in the run-up to the PLP’s delegates conference this month.

Sources told The Royal Gazette that nominations for the leader and deputy leader are due tomorrow.

It is thought David Burt, the PLP leader and Premier, will not face a challenge but that Mr Simmons has been testing the waters to gauge support for a run for the deputy position.

The party’s constitution rules that the two posts will be appointed by election every four years at its delegates conference, which is scheduled for October 24 to 26.

An insider said yesterday: “There’s not a challenge for the leadership, but there’s a challenge for the deputy leadership. We will know by Wednesday, for sure, who is going to submit their names. By the constitution, every four years the office of the leader and the deputy leader has to be vacated.”

Mr Roban, who is also Minister of Transport and Regulatory Affairs, is expected to put himself forward to retain the position. The source said there had been speculation that Mr Simmons may also throw his hat in the ring.

Without an official announcement, it is unknown what level of support he may get.

Mr Simmons was said to have visited various party branches over the past couple of months to “get a feel” for the climate.

Both the party leader and deputy leader must be elected members of the House of Assembly. With a career that includes policing, banking and hospitality, Mr Simmons is a former PLP chairman who has also served in media and public relations roles for the PLP.

Mr Simmons declined to comment yesterday, while Mr Roban could not be contacted for comment.