Streeting Sparks Crisis as Call to Rejoin EU Threatens 'King Andy' Coronation

Wes Streeting’s Bold Stance on Brexit Sparks Leadership Drama

Wes Streeting has made a bold move in the ongoing leadership race within the Labour Party, positioning himself as a proponent of rejoining the European Union if he becomes Prime Minister. This stance directly challenges the party's long-standing commitment to respecting the 2016 Brexit vote and has sparked intense debate among Labour members and leaders.

Streeting officially announced his bid for leadership on Saturday, emphasizing that Britain's future lies with Europe. His comments have been met with mixed reactions, particularly from fellow candidates like Andy Burnham, who is also pro-Europe but faces a challenging by-election in the Makerfield constituency, where 65% of voters supported leaving the EU in 2016.

Burnham, the mayor of Manchester, was asked about his position on rejoining the EU during an interview with ITV News. He responded by stating that while there may be a long-term case for rejoining, he is not advocating for it in the current by-election. This cautious approach contrasts sharply with Streeting’s more direct stance, which could put Burnham at a disadvantage in the political landscape.

Government sources have criticized Streeting's remarks as "divisive" and "pure, selfish ambition." Meanwhile, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage suggested that the North would be lost to Labour forever due to such positions. Tory chairman Kevin Hollinrake echoed these sentiments, stating that while Labour relitigates Brexit, Britain is not being governed.

A Turbulent Week for Labour

The week has been tumultuous for Labour following their disastrous local election results. MP Josh Simons announced his resignation as Makerfield MP, leading to immediate declarations from Burnham to run for the seat. Angela Rayner, another leadership hopeful, was effectively cleared to run after HMRC confirmed she would not be fined for underpaying stamp duty on her home.

Despite this, there is growing resistance among Labour MPs regarding the idea of Burnham succeeding Sir Keir Starmer without a proper contest. Streeting addressed these concerns by stating that a proper contest with the best candidates is necessary, and he will be standing for the leadership.

In his first public speech since resigning as Health Secretary, Streeting highlighted the threat from Reform UK, warning that unless Labour changes course, they risk becoming the handmaidens of Nigel Farage and the breakup of the United Kingdom.

The Battle for Leadership

The leadership race has seen dramatic developments, with sources indicating that Sir Keir wanted to leave No 10 in a dignified manner, although his former chief of staff urged him to stay. Burnham expressed his ambition to "save" Labour, stating that the party cannot continue as it is.

A snap poll conducted by Find Out Now for the MoS showed Burnham leading both Rayner and Streeting. Streeting emphasized the economic opportunities available through a new special relationship with the EU, stating that Britain's future lies with Europe.

Senior Labour MPs have condemned the idea of a "coronation" for Burnham, arguing that the party's democratic constitution must be respected. Neil Coyle, Bermondsey MP, criticized Burnham's sense of entitlement, while Clive Efford warned against a coronation, referencing Gordon Brown's previous leadership transition.

Graham Stringer emphasized the importance of a democratic process, stating that the Labour Party's constitution cannot be thrown aside. However, some senior sources suggested that Burnham could become leader without a contest if he wins the Makerfield by-election by a significant margin.

Concerns Over Leadership Transition

MPs have also voiced concerns about whether Sir Keir should announce a timetable to quit. Efford warned that it would be premature before the by-election, suggesting that the party needs to steady itself before discussing a transition.

Burnham faced criticism from some Labour members for allegedly not mentioning his upbringing in a prosperous Cheshire village. A post on a Labour WhatsApp group noted that Burnham grew up in a large, five-bedroom house in a posh area, contrasting with the terraced streets of Makerfield.

Burnham, who was previously MP for Leigh, insisted he is not a "carpet bagger" and has a genuine connection with the seat. He emphasized his commitment to making Labour a party that working-class people can believe in again.

Nigel Farage seized on Burnham's discomfort, stating that he has favored rejoining the EU for some time and will remind voters every day. As the leadership race continues, the political landscape remains highly charged, with Brexit and the future of Labour at the center of the debate.