A significant rift has erupted within the Labour Party, as two of its most prominent northern figures publicly condemn Sir Keir Starmer's leadership for an unexpected alliance with the government on a key issue affecting businesses.
Northern Powerhouses Clash with Party Leadership
Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, and night-time economy adviser Sacha Lord have launched a scathing attack. Their fury is directed at Labour MPs who, last week, abstained from voting on a Conservative motion that rejected financial support for hospitality venues facing soaring licensing fees.
This move is seen as a major betrayal of the sector Labour has traditionally championed. Mr Lord did not mince his words, stating the party had "well and truly bottled it" and accusing it of being "spineless".
"A Kick in the Teeth" for Struggling Businesses
The controversy centres on a decision by the Tory government to press ahead with a planned 7% increase in licensing fees for pubs, clubs, and music venues. This hike comes at a time when the industry is already grappling with the severe impact of the cost-of-living crisis and soaring energy bills.
Mr Burnham expressed his profound disappointment, labelling the situation a "real missed opportunity" to support local communities and economies. He emphasised that this was not a partisan issue, but a matter of survival for countless businesses.
Starmer's Party Accused of Abandoning Core Values
The criticism strikes at the heart of Sir Keir Starmer's effort to reposition Labour as the "party of business". Critics argue that by failing to stand up for the hospitality sector—a vital employer and cultural cornerstone, particularly in cities like Manchester—Labour is risking its credibility.
This internal rebellion highlights the delicate balancing act Starmer faces. He must appeal to a broader electoral base while maintaining the support of traditional Labour strongholds and their representatives, like the popular Mayor Burnham.
The fallout from this vote suggests that tensions between Labour's regional leaders and its Westminster parliamentary party are reaching a boiling point, setting the stage for further internal conflict.
