A Cabinet shake-up is expected in the coming days, and the Express has examined where five key Labour politicians stand on Brexit. The poll comes after a tumultuous week in UK politics, with the resignation of a Prime Minister and Andy Burnham's move from Manchester Mayor to MP for Makerfield.
Andy Burnham: A 'Seismic Threat' to Brexit?
Brexiteers have warned that Andy Burnham could pose a "seismic threat" to Brexit if he becomes Prime Minister. Former MEP David Campbell-Bannerman described Burnham as a far more dangerous opponent than Sir Keir Starmer regarding Britain's decision to leave the EU. As recently as last year, Burnham declared he wanted Britain to rejoin the EU, though he has repeatedly refused to answer questions about his Brexit position when posed by the Express. However, during the Makerfield campaign—where 66% of residents voted to leave—Burnham rowed back his pro-EU stance, insisting he respected the referendum result.
Wes Streeting: Rejoin Advocate Steps Back
Former health secretary Wes Streeting has branded Brexit a "catastrophic mistake" that should be reversed. In May, a week after quitting the cabinet, he pledged to make rejoining the EU a key objective if he became PM. "The biggest economic opportunity we have is on our doorstep," he said. "We need a new special relationship with the EU, because Britain's future lies with Europe – and, one day, back in the European Union." However, Streeting has since backed off from the leadership race and pledged his support to Burnham.
Ed Miliband: Long-Time EU Supporter
Before the 2016 vote, Ed Miliband argued that Britain should stay in the EU to achieve social justice and progressive change. He has long supported Burnham and is tipped to become the new Chancellor, sharing similar views on tax overhaul and publicly controlled utilities. However, they clash on net zero plans.
Angela Rayner: Focus on Growth, Not Rejoin
Angela Rayner has rejected revisiting Brexit, saying the UK should instead focus on growth. In May, she told ITV host Paul Brand that Brexit and its implementation made it challenging for many businesses to be competitive and access the EU market. "Therefore we should be addressing those challenges not going back to the old argument - are we in or out," she said.
Keir Starmer: Look Forward, Not Back
Just five days ago, then-PM Keir Starmer said the UK and EU should not waste time "looking backwards" to Brexit. He reaffirmed his government's manifesto commitment to not re-enter the EU, stating there had been "real progress" with the relationship, building "slowly but surely".
Now, the Express asks readers: Who poses the biggest threat to Brexit? Vote in the poll or join the discussion.
