The political landscape within the Labour Party is shifting as discussions around the UK’s relationship with the European Union gain renewed urgency. This comes in the wake of former Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s bold declaration that leaving the EU was a “catastrophic mistake.” His comments, made at the Progress Conference in London, signal a potential leadership challenge to Sir Keir Starmer and set the stage for a contentious by-election in Makerfield.
Streeting’s Call to Reassess Brexit
Wes Streeting’s remarks at the Progress Conference represent a significant pivot in Labour’s approach to Brexit, a topic that has remained a sensitive issue since the 2016 referendum. In his address, Streeting articulated that the decision to exit the EU has left the UK “less wealthy, less powerful, and less in control than at any point since before the Industrial Revolution.” He posited the need for a “new special relationship with the EU,” suggesting that the ultimate goal could be rejoining the union, contingent upon securing a new mandate through a general election.
Streeting’s critique of Labour’s previous caution on Brexit highlights a broader frustration within the party. He accused Labour of being overly fearful of Conservative backlash, which has stymied the development of a robust policy platform. “We need to deal with the big issues that define our age,” he stated, placing Brexit firmly at the forefront of his agenda.
The Conservative Response
The Conservative Party swiftly responded to Streeting’s comments. Chairman Kevin Hollinrake underscored the potential distractions these debates could create, asserting that Labour’s fixation on Brexit detracts from pressing issues like the cost of living and economic stability. He emphasised that while Labour engages in “re-litigating Brexit,” the government must remain focused on governance and public services.
Such exchanges reveal the extent to which Brexit continues to dominate the political narrative in the UK. The Conservatives appear keen to leverage Labour’s internal debates to reinforce their own standing, particularly as they face ongoing challenges related to economic management.
Andy Burnham’s Position and Makerfield By-Election
Amidst this backdrop, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is positioning himself for the forthcoming by-election in Makerfield, expected to take place on 18 June. While Burnham has acknowledged a long-term case for rejoining the EU, he has also indicated that he does not intend to advocate this position during the by-election campaign. This duality reflects the delicate balance Labour must strike as it navigates the electorate’s diverse views on Brexit.
Burnham’s campaign is set against a constituency where 65% of voters supported Brexit in the 2016 referendum. Reform UK is poised to capitalise on this sentiment, having reportedly gained around 50% of the vote share in local elections, compared to Labour’s 27%. The party has already begun to remind voters of Burnham’s previous comments advocating for EU membership, seeking to paint him as inconsistent on a pivotal issue.
The Broader Political Implications
The ongoing debate surrounding Brexit highlights not only Labour’s internal struggles but also the wider implications for political dynamics in the UK. The Liberal Democrats and the Green Party have reiterated calls for a re-evaluation of the UK’s ties to the EU, arguing that without a customs union, the nation cannot achieve the economic growth it desperately needs.
Both parties have pointed to recent electoral outcomes as evidence that the public is increasingly receptive to the idea of closer ties with Europe. As these discussions unfold, they will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of the Labour leadership race, as contenders like Streeting and Burnham grapple with their party’s future direction.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of Brexit as a central theme in Labour’s political discourse underscores the issue’s enduring salience in the UK. As party members navigate the complexities of leadership challenges and by-elections, the stance they adopt on Brexit could significantly influence voter sentiment. This moment serves as a pivotal juncture for Labour, one that will not only shape the party’s internal landscape but could also redefine its relationship with the electorate as the nation continues to grapple with the long-term repercussions of its departure from the EU.