In a fresh twist to the unofficial Labour leadership race, Wes Streeting has sparked controversy with his call for the UK to rejoin the European Union, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from within the party. Key figures, including Lisa Nandy, have accused him of reigniting the “Brexit wars” at a time when the party is grappling with critical electoral challenges, particularly in the upcoming Makerfield by-election.
Streeting’s Controversial Proposal
Streeting’s comments, made in a bid to position himself as a leadership contender, labelled Brexit as a “catastrophic mistake.” He emphasised the need for a renewed relationship with the EU, stating, “Britain’s future lies with Europe – and one day back in the European Union.” This assertion has put pressure on fellow party member and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who previously expressed a desire to rejoin the bloc but is now considering a more tempered stance as he prepares for the imminent by-election.
Nandy has dismissed Streeting’s rejoin call as “odd,” suggesting it resembles a nostalgic longing for 2015 rather than a realistic policy direction. Her remarks highlight the growing rift within the party over how to handle Brexit and its implications for Labour’s future.
The Stakes in Makerfield
The Makerfield constituency, which voted decisively for Leave in the 2016 referendum, is now a focal point for Labour’s internal strife. With Streeting’s provocative stance, the Reform Party is poised to capitalise on Labour’s divisions, potentially jeopardising Burnham’s chances in the by-election. Burnham’s allies, including Josh Simon, who is vacating his seat for Burnham, warn that a defeat could precipitate an “existential crisis” for Labour, undermining current leadership and strategy.
As the party grapples with its identity post-Brexit, the call for rejoining the EU has become a contentious issue. Burnham himself is treading carefully, acknowledging the long-term case for rejoining while refraining from advocating for it during the by-election campaign.
Leadership Dynamics Under Scrutiny
The ongoing turmoil has also prompted discussions about Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership. Nandy has suggested that the decision to contest his position should be a “personal decision” for Starmer, reflecting a significant shift in sentiment among cabinet members. The call for a leadership contest has been echoed by former minister Jess Phillips, who recently resigned, urging Starmer to step aside if a challenge arises.
The fracturing of support within the party is evident, as figures like Nigel Farage seize the opportunity to criticise Burnham, branding him “open borders Burnham” and calling for his political downfall. Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, has denounced Labour for revisiting the Brexit debate, accusing the party of lacking a coherent plan for the country.
Broader Implications for Labour
The Labour Party is at a crossroads, grappling with internal divisions while facing external pressures from rival parties. Nandy has expressed concern that the focus on leadership personalities detracts from the pressing issues that voters care about. In an interview, she lamented that the public’s urgent need for change has been sidelined by Westminster’s introspection.
As the party navigates these turbulent waters, the implications of Streeting’s comments and the subsequent fallout will be closely monitored. The decisions made in the coming weeks will not only shape the future of the Labour leadership but also determine the party’s electoral viability in a challenging political landscape.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of the Brexit debate within the Labour Party underscores the ongoing struggle to define its identity post-referendum. As members grapple with differing views on EU membership, the party risks alienating its base while under pressure from both internal challengers and external opponents. The outcome of the Makerfield by-election and the leadership dynamics that unfold will be pivotal, not just for Labour’s immediate future but for its long-term relevance in British politics.