Allies of Wes Streeting have launched a scathing attack on Andy Burnham, branding him a 'human shopping trolley' following a series of policy reversals. The insult underscores the intensifying contest between the two Labour figures to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as party leader.
Policy U-turns spark criticism
Burnham has recently performed notable U-turns on key issues. On Brexit, he now states he would not reopen the question of EU membership, a shift from his earlier suggestion that rejoining the bloc should be considered. In economic policy, he has agreed to abide by government fiscal rules, despite previously advocating for additional borrowing to fund defence spending.
Origins of the jibe
The 'human shopping trolley' epithet was originally coined by Dominic Cummings, Boris Johnson's senior No 10 adviser, to describe what he perceived as Johnson's chaotic governance. The term has now been repurposed by Streeting's camp to criticise Burnham's perceived inconsistency.
Streeting's allies argue that Burnham's flip-flopping undermines his credibility as a potential leader. The rivalry between the two is expected to intensify as the Labour leadership contest approaches.
