Exclusive analysis has uncovered a seismic shift within the Labour Party, revealing a staggering exodus of members that threatens to undermine its grassroots foundation.
Internal figures, scrutinised by The Independent, show the party's membership has nosedived to approximately 366,000 – a dramatic fall of almost half since Sir Keir Starmer assumed leadership in 2020. This represents a loss of over 190,000 members, painting a stark picture of dwindling support.
The Corbyn Legacy and the Starmer Slump
The decline marks a sharp reversal from the peak years under former leader Jeremy Corbyn. During his tenure, Labour boasted a mass membership of over 532,000, energised by a left-wing agenda. The current numbers now sit at their lowest point since 2016.
Labour MP Emily Sultana, a vocal critic, did not mince words: "Your party membership is not an asset to be leveraged. It is the very lifeblood of our movement. These people are not just numbers on a spreadsheet; they are our activists, our campaigners, our believers." Her comments highlight a growing internal fear that the party is alienating its core base.
Behind the Numbers: A Party in Crisis?
This mass departure raises profound questions about Starmer's leadership and strategic direction. Political analysts suggest the drop reflects a broader discontent, potentially linked to:
- A perceived shift from left-wing policies towards the centre ground.
- Internal factionalism and the expulsion of prominent left-wing figures.
- A lack of clear, galvanising vision for the party's future.
The financial implications are also significant, with the party facing a substantial loss in subscription revenue, which traditionally funds campaigns and operations.
What This Means for British Politics
A smaller, less-active membership could hamper Labour's ground game in the next general election. While polls currently favour Labour, a disengaged and shrinking base may struggle to mobilise the volunteer force needed to secure a decisive victory.
This internal crisis suggests that while Starmer may be winning back moderate voters, he is simultaneously presiding over a hollowing out of the party's most dedicated supporters. The challenge ahead is not just to win power, but to rebuild a movement.
