Rebecca Long-Bailey has criticised Sir Keir Starmer, describing Labour's recent local election results as 'soul-destroying'. Speaking to the BBC on Friday, the Salford MP stated that Labour had been 'squeezed' by both Reform and the Greens. This squeeze resulted in the loss of several 'really good' councillors and candidates for the party.
Long-Bailey's Criticism
Long-Bailey noted that many residents felt unable to vote for Labour due to the party's national actions. She suggested Labour’s recent slogans, rhetoric, and decisions had not resonated well in local communities. The MP blamed an 'out of touch' leadership for the party's poor performance in Salford.
Impact on Labour
The losses have raised questions about Labour's strategy under Starmer. Long-Bailey's comments highlight internal divisions within the party over its direction. She emphasised that local candidates who worked hard were let down by national policy missteps.
Labour's performance in the local elections has been described as disappointing, with the party losing ground to both the right-wing Reform party and the left-wing Greens. Long-Bailey's remarks suggest a need for a reassessment of Labour's approach to connect with voters disillusioned by the party's national stance.
