Labour frontbencher Lisa Nandy has issued a blistering assessment of her own party's campaign methods, branding them outdated and ineffective in today's political landscape.
In a remarkably frank intervention, the shadow international development secretary told colleagues: 'We're fighting 21st century elections with 20th century tools' - suggesting Labour risks becoming obsolete unless it urgently reforms its approach.
The Wake-Up Call
Nandy's comments came during a private meeting of Labour's National Policy Forum, where she reportedly received applause for her candour. Her critique focused on three key areas:
- Digital deficit: Labour's failure to match Conservative digital campaigning capabilities
- Ground game: Over-reliance on traditional doorstep campaigning methods
- Message discipline: Inconsistent communication that fails to cut through
Starmer's Strategic Challenge
The intervention puts pressure on Keir Starmer's leadership team to demonstrate they can modernise Labour's operations. With a general election potentially less than two years away, time is running short to implement meaningful changes.
Nandy warned: 'We can't keep doing what we've always done and expect different results. The electorate has changed, and we must change with them.'
Road to Relevance
Political analysts suggest Nandy's comments reflect growing anxiety among Labour MPs about the party's ability to capitalise on Conservative weaknesses. Despite numerous government scandals and economic turmoil, Labour's poll lead remains narrower than many expected.
The shadow minister's solution? A complete overhaul of campaigning infrastructure, greater investment in data analytics, and more authentic engagement with voters beyond traditional Labour strongholds.
