A fresh Brexit row has erupted within the Labour Party after Wes Streeting suggested the UK should one day rejoin the European Union, drawing criticism from allies of Andy Burnham who fear it could complicate the upcoming by-election in Makerfield.
Streeting reignites Brexit debate
The former health secretary argued over the weekend that leaving the EU was a catastrophic mistake and that Britain's future lies with Europe. He stated: 'We need a new special relationship with the EU, because Britain's future lies with Europe – and one day back in the European Union.'
These comments have reopened the Brexit culture war within the party, as Labour leadership hopefuls jostle for position. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy described the remarks as 'a bit odd', despite agreeing that leaving the EU was a mistake. She questioned the sudden focus on Europe, saying she didn't 'really understand why the sudden focus on Europe'.
Burnham allies concerned
Allies of Andy Burnham, who is competing for the Makerfield by-election seat in Greater Manchester before a potential leadership bid, have criticised Streeting's intervention. According to BBC reports, highlighting Brexit could make it more difficult for Labour to beat Reform UK in the increasingly right-leaning constituency.
The renewed row underscores ongoing divisions within Labour over Europe, as senior figures navigate the party's stance ahead of future electoral contests.
