Labour Party Faces Internal Challenges Over Brexit and Leadership Stability
Keir Starmer, the Labour leader who has largely moved away from Brexit discussions since becoming leader post-2019 election, signals an approach towards a closer EU trading relationship while maintaining a stance against rejoining the single market and customs union. This contrasts with earlier positions when, as shadow Brexit secretary in 2018, Starmer called for a second EU referendum, a position later endorsed by Labour.
Despite ongoing government negotiations to deepen UK-EU ties, including talks on food checks and carbon tariffs, there remains debate within Labour about whether to rejoin the customs union. Advocates argue it simplifies trade but note it would limit independent trade policy and affect deals with countries like India and the US. Public opinion appears to have shifted toward skepticism of Brexit, fueling internal Labour discussions on appealing to traditional red-wall voters amidst concerns about competition from the Greens and Liberal Democrats.
Concurrently, Labour is grappling with internal tensions highlighted by anonymous briefings alleging Starmer would resist leadership removal efforts and naming Wes Streeting as a plotting minister. Starmer condemned these leaks and urged for the sacking of those responsible, a sentiment echoed by the Prime Minister (PM), who called attacks on ministers unacceptable. It remains unclear if the PM authorized or was aware of these briefings, prompting questions about potential leak inquiries and dismissals.
Morgan McSweeney, the PM's chief of staff credited with Labour's election landslide, is under criticism, with calls for accountability; however, there are conflicting views on whether Downing Street officials orchestrated the briefings. Wesley Streeting described Downing Street as toxic and sexist during pre-arranged interviews, urging for decisive action against those behind the leaks. Following a phone call between the PM and Streeting, the PM apologized and they planned further discussions.
This episode, marked by its intensity and focus on internal leaks, has heightened concerns about Labour's leadership stability and strategy amid ongoing unpopularity of both the government and Starmer's Labour. Nick Thomas-Symonds's recent cabinet appointment, framed as a demonstration of loyalty, does not signal major shifts in Brexit policy but reflects the party’s cautious navigation through political challenges.
