The political landscape in the UK is heating up as the prospect of a Labour leadership contest looms large, reigniting the contentious issue of Brexit. This comes on the heels of former Health Secretary Wes Streeting’s bold declaration that leaving the European Union was “a catastrophic mistake.” Speaking at the Progress Conference in London, Streeting announced his intention to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the leadership, positioning Brexit as a central theme in this emerging political battle.
Streeting’s Bold Brexit Claims
In a clear signal that Labour may be shifting its stance on Brexit, Streeting made headlines with his critical remarks. He asserted that Brexit has rendered the UK “less wealthy, less powerful, and less in control” than at any point since the Industrial Revolution. Emphasising the need for a “new special relationship” with the EU, he argued that the future of Britain lies in closer ties with Europe, hinting at the possibility of rejoining the EU under a new mandate—potentially after a general election.
His comments did not go unnoticed by the Conservative Party. Chairman Kevin Hollinrake quickly denounced Streeting’s stance, accusing Labour of wasting time on Brexit while key issues like the cost of living crisis demand urgent attention. “While Labour relitigate Brexit, Britain is not being governed,” Hollinrake stated, framing Streeting’s remarks as a distraction from pressing governmental responsibilities.
The Stakes in Makerfield
As the political tides shift, the upcoming by-election in the Makerfield constituency adds urgency to these debates. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is vying to become Labour’s candidate in this election, with the vote expected around 18 June. His own views on Brexit have come under scrutiny, especially after he hinted at a long-term case for rejoining the EU, though he clarified that he is not advocating such a position in the immediate context of the by-election.
Reform UK sees an opportunity in Makerfield, particularly given that 65% of local voters backed Brexit in the 2016 referendum. The party is leveraging Burnham’s previous comments—where he expressed a desire to see the UK rejoin the EU in his lifetime—to galvanise support against Labour. The local election results suggest that Reform UK gained a significant foothold, securing around 50% of the vote share compared to Labour’s 27%.
The Broader Political Implications
Streeting’s assertions and Burnham’s candidacy highlight the complexities surrounding Labour’s relationship with Brexit as a defining issue within British politics. Burnham, while canvassing in Makerfield, articulated a vision for a re-industrialised northwest England and called for a return to public control over essential services. “Britain has been on the wrong path for 40 years,” he remarked, underscoring the need for substantial political and economic reform.
The Liberal Democrats and the Green Party, capitalising on the discourse, have reiterated their calls for a customs union and full EU membership, respectively. This indicates that Brexit remains a divisive topic that could shape political allegiances and voter preferences in the upcoming election cycles.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of Brexit as a key issue within Labour’s internal dynamics signals a potential shift in the party’s strategy as it prepares for future challenges. With prominent figures like Streeting advocating for a reevaluation of the UK’s relationship with the EU, the stakes are high—not just for Labour, but for the entire political landscape as voters reassess their positions on Brexit and its long-term implications. As the country grapples with economic uncertainties and political fragmentation, these discussions could determine the fate of parties and the direction of the UK in the years to come.
