Reversing Brexit has returned to the political agenda as Labour leadership contenders Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham battle to succeed Keir Starmer, who faces a critical decision on whether to fight a potential contest. Downing Street insists the Prime Minister is focused on governing, with a packed schedule of announcements planned for the coming days.
Leadership Race Looms
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has cast doubt on whether Starmer would run in a leadership race, suggesting he may set out a timetable for his departure. Downing Street, however, stated that Starmer is getting on with the job, with ministers preparing to unveil policies on youth justice, illegal working, small business support, and cost of living measures from Chancellor Rachel Reeves amid the fallout from the war in Iran.
Over the weekend, both Streeting and Burnham made their pitches. Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, launched a vision for a “new path for Britain” as he prepares to return to Parliament via a by-election in Makerfield. Labour’s ruling body has approved his candidacy, pending local party selection. The by-election, rumored for June 18, is seen as a high-stakes test against Reform, with Nigel Farage posting photos of activists campaigning in the constituency. Senior Reform figure Zia Yusuf vowed to “end Andy Burnham’s career”.
Brexit Divisions
Wes Streeting, the former Health Secretary who resigned last week, split opinion by calling Brexit a “catastrophic mistake” and supporting EU rejoining. Nandy warned against “reopening the Brexit wars”, while Burnham said there is a “case” for rejoining in the long term but not in this by-election. Nandy, a Burnham ally, lamented Labour’s internal focus after poor local election results, urging colleagues to address voters’ concerns.
On leadership speculation, Nandy noted a woman leader is “long overdue” but ruled herself out. She expressed frustration that Westminster has become consumed by personalities rather than the urgent change voters demanded. Former deputy PM Angela Rayner, cleared of tax wrongdoing, is seen as a potential contender but is understood to support Burnham and would only stand if he loses the by-election.
Home Office minister Jess Phillips, who quit last week, backed Streeting’s “bravery and boldness” and bluntly stated that Starmer should not run in a leadership contest. If a race is triggered, Starmer is automatically a candidate, but over the weekend rumours suggested he may consider a “dignified” exit. Some Labour figures propose a “coronation” of Burnham if he wins the by-election, but Streeting insists on a “proper contest”.
