Wes Streeting has declared that Britain's future lies within the European Union, vowing to reverse Brexit if he becomes Prime Minister. The former Health Secretary made the remarks as he formally launched his campaign to succeed Sir Keir Starmer, directly contradicting Labour's previous commitment to respect the 2016 referendum result.
Streeting's Pro-EU Stance
Speaking at a Progress think-tank event on Saturday, Streeting described Brexit as 'a catastrophic mistake' and stated that 'Britain's future lies with Europe – and one day back in the European Union.' This puts pressure on leadership rival Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Manchester, who is also pro-European but has sought to downplay the issue during his own campaign for the Makerfield by-election.
Burnham's Dilemma
Burnham, aiming to return to Westminster in a constituency that voted 66% for Leave in 2016, told ITV News he supports rejoining 'in the long-term' but is not advocating it in the by-election. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage seized on this, warning that 'the North will be lost to Labour forever.'
Internal Party Reactions
Government sources labelled Streeting's comments as 'divisive' and driven by 'pure, selfish ambition.' Conservative chairman Kevin Hollinrake accused Labour of relitigating Brexit while the country lacks governance. Meanwhile, Labour MPs expressed resistance to a potential 'coronation' of Burnham, with veteran backbencher Clive Efford stating that a contest is necessary for democratic legitimacy.
Leadership Contest Dynamics
Streeting resigned as Health Secretary amid what he called a 'vacuum' in No 10, following disastrous local election results. Angela Rayner has also been cleared to run after HMRC confirmed no fine for stamp duty underpayment. A snap poll of Labour members by Find Out Now puts Burnham ahead of both Rayner and Streeting.
Senior Labour figures, including Neil Coyle and Graham Stringer, condemned the idea of Burnham becoming leader without a membership vote. However, some sources suggest a decisive victory in Makerfield could pave the way for a coronation.
Brexit at the Forefront
Streeting's remarks have reignited the Brexit debate within Labour, with critics warning it could alienate Leave voters. Farage has vowed to remind Makerfield voters of Burnham's pro-EU stance daily. The by-election on June 18, coinciding with the Battle of Waterloo anniversary, will be a key test for Labour's direction.
