If Labour did not exist, would you invent it? That is the question facing the party as it grapples with internal strife and a leadership challenge. In a recent column, Gaby Hinsliff explores the existential crisis within Labour, arguing that the party must articulate a clear purpose or risk irrelevance.
The Leadership Turmoil
The recent resignation of Wes Streeting from the cabinet, accompanied by a blistering statement, has shaken the party. Streeting called for an end to "personalities" and "petty factionalism," but his move was seen as a frustrated attempt to break the stalemate over Keir Starmer's leadership. Meanwhile, Andy Burnham has been touted as a potential candidate, though he initially struggled to find an MP to nominate him. Angela Rayner, after resolving a stamp duty issue, remains a key figure. The outcome of any contest is uncertain, but the underlying question is clear: what is Labour for in 2026?
The Changing Electoral Landscape
Labour's traditional role as the main left-of-centre party is under threat. Analysis by the Persuasion thinktank shows that many voters who switched from Labour to Plaid Cymru were motivated by a desire to beat Reform UK. The Greens are also positioning themselves as the anti-Farage choice. Labour must decide whether to embrace a multiparty reality and work in coalition or fight to reclaim its dominance.
If Labour is no longer seen as the natural party of government on the left, the floor for the left in general could lower, making Labour's existence less essential. The party needs a leader who can articulate why it is still needed, beyond just being a vehicle for competence.
The Vision Gap
Starmer's answer to "Why Labour?" has focused on his own competence, but this has not resonated with voters. Those who voted Labour in 2024 but would not now often cite the party being too "Tory-lite" or lacking a clear identity. The cost of living is a lesser factor. Streeting's argument that a lack of vision has created a vacuum echoes public sentiment.
Interestingly, the visions of the likely candidates are not far apart. Burnham's record in Manchester is pragmatic, working with the private sector and grassroots left. Streeting, often caricatured as a rightwinger, has hinted at a more nuanced approach on immigration and economic reform. Both recognize the need to address voters' squeezed lives and lack of choices.
What Labour Could Stand For
The Labour Growth Group has proposed reforms to cut the cost of housing, energy, and childcare, shifting from taxing work to taxing wealth. This vision is for people who can pay bills but have nothing left for life's pleasures. Labour's role might be less about crusading social justice and more about being the plausible party of ordinary desires for a good life. But values still matter.
As Hinsliff concludes, she has no dog in this fight yet. She is looking for a candidate who seems up to the challenge, someone who can provide the lightbulb moment of understanding what was missing. Without that, the party remains in the dark.
