Wes Streeting’s Bold Stance on Brexit Sparks Leadership Drama
Wes Streeting, the former Health Secretary, has made a bold move in his bid to become the next leader of the Labour Party. His plan to bring Britain back into the European Union if he becomes Prime Minister has created significant tension within the party, challenging Labour's stance that it respects the 2016 Brexit vote.
Streeting officially announced his leadership ambitions on Saturday, positioning the contentious issue of Brexit at the center of his campaign. While Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer was at Chequers outlining an 'orderly timetable' for his resignation, Streeting described Brexit as "a catastrophic mistake." He emphasized that "Britain's future lies with Europe" and expressed hope for a day when the country would be back in the European Union.
This statement is expected to put pressure on his leadership rival, Andy Burnham, who is also pro-Europe but has been cautious about focusing on the issue during his by-election campaign in the Makerfield constituency. The area voted 65% for Leave in 2016, and Burnham has been careful not to make rejoining the EU a central point in his campaign.
During an interview with ITV News, Burnham was asked if he supported rejoining the EU. He responded by stating that while there may be a long-term case for it, he is not advocating for it in this by-election. This cautious approach contrasts with Streeting's more direct stance on the issue.
Government sources have criticized Streeting's remarks as "divisive" and "pure, selfish ambition," while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage claimed that the North will be lost to Labour forever. Tory chairman Kevin Hollinrake added that while Labour relitigates Brexit, Britain is not being governed.
Streeting's resignation as Health Secretary in protest against the "vacuum" in No 10 came during a turbulent period for Labour following their poor local election results. MP Josh Simons announced his intention to step down as Makerfield MP, leading to Burnham declaring his candidacy. Angela Rayner was also cleared to run after HMRC stated she would not be fined for underpaying stamp duty on her home.
Despite these developments, there is growing resistance among Labour MPs regarding the possibility of Burnham becoming leader without a vote from the rank-and-file members. Streeting addressed these concerns, stating that a proper contest with the best candidates is necessary and that he will be standing.
In his first public speech since leaving government, Streeting highlighted the economic opportunities available through a new relationship with the EU. He emphasized that "Britain's future lies with Europe."
Senior Labour MPs have condemned the idea of a "coronation" for Burnham, arguing that it would undermine the democratic process. Neil Coyle, Bermondsey MP, criticized Burnham as a "nightmare for the Labour party," while Clive Efford warned that a coronation would be a "huge mistake."
Efford also referenced the previous coronation of Gordon Brown, stating that it undermined his leadership. Graham Stringer added that the Labour Party has a democratic constitution that cannot be ignored.
Some senior Labour sources suggested that Burnham could become leader without a contest if he wins the Makerfield by-election by more than 2,000 votes. However, they stressed that a decisive victory would be necessary for him to gain momentum for a coronation.
MPs also expressed concern about whether Sir Keir should announce a timetable for his resignation. Efford warned that it would be premature before the by-election, suggesting that the party needs to steady itself before considering a transition.
Burnham faced criticism from some Labour members for not mentioning his upbringing in a prosperous Cheshire village. A post on a Labour WhatsApp group noted that he grew up in a large house in a posh area, not the terraced streets or council estates of Makerfield. Burnham defended his connection to the seat, stating that he lives on its edge and has a strong understanding of its people.
Nigel Farage seized on Burnham's situation, claiming that he has favored rejoining the EU for some time and that Reform UK will remind voters of this daily.
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