Top of Labour in row over EU as Nandy challenges Streeting’s remarks

The latest spat within the Labour party over rejoining the European Union has exposed deep-seated divisions that have been simmering since Brexit. The controversy began when Wes Streeting suggested Britain should eventually seek to regain membership, prompting a sharp rebuke from culture secretary Lisa Nandy.

For some in Labour, rejoining the EU is seen as a matter of when, not if. With party leaders under increasing pressure from their own MPs and the specter of a byelection in Makerfield looming large, Streeting’s comments were perhaps inevitable. However, Nandy and others have made it clear that this is not just about policy – it’s also about politics.

Nandy’s reaction to Streeting’s remarks was telling: “I think Brexit was a mistake,” she said, echoing many Labour MPs who campaigned to remain in 2016. But what’s striking is her criticism of Streeting’s timing rather than the substance of his argument. This suggests that Nandy and others are more concerned with avoiding controversy than engaging in genuine policy discussion.

The Labour leadership’s reluctance to take risks has been a hallmark of its approach, prioritizing stability above all else. However, as the party struggles with issues such as the cost-of-living crisis and an increasingly unpopular Brexit deal, this strategy is beginning to look inadequate.

Streeting’s comments are actually a reflection of the broader mood within Labour. Many MPs have been quietly agitating for a more radical policy agenda, one that would involve taking bold action on issues like public ownership and workers’ rights. By speaking out in favor of rejoining the EU, Streeting is pushing the party to confront its own contradictions – between its Remain heritage and post-Brexit reality.

Labour’s history offers a cautionary tale. The Thatcher government’s Maastricht rebellion in 1992 ultimately led to John Major’s downfall. If Labour is to avoid a similar fate, it needs to confront its divisions head-on and start taking some genuine risks.

The outcome of the Makerfield byelection will be closely watched, not just for its impact on Starmer’s leadership but also as a barometer of the party’s mood music. Will Burnham’s campaign succeed in galvanizing support among voters? And what about Nandy’s response to Streeting – is it a sign of things to come?

One thing is certain: Labour needs to start making tough decisions rather than relying on platitudes about “unity” and “stability”. The EU debate may seem like a sideshow, but it’s actually a symptom of deeper issues that need to be addressed. By confronting these contradictions head-on, Labour can begin to rebuild its fortunes – or risk losing its way in the wilderness.

As the party hurtles towards a potentially catastrophic byelection, one thing is clear: Labour needs to stop prevaricating and start taking real action. Streeting’s EU gambit may be contentious, but it’s also an opportunity for the party to confront its demons – and emerge stronger as a result.