Brexit Debate Reignites as Labour Leadership Battle Intensifies
Maryam Tariq
Streeting Calls Brexit a “Catastrophic Mistake”
The debate over Brexit has returned to the center of British politics after former UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting openly criticised Britain’s exit from the European Union while announcing a leadership challenge against Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Speaking at the Progress Conference in London, Streeting described Brexit as a “catastrophic mistake” that left Britain “less wealthy, less powerful, and less in control.” He argued that the UK should pursue a much closer relationship with Europe and suggested that Britain could one day rejoin the European Union through a new democratic mandate.
Labour Faces Renewed Divisions Over Europe
Under Keir Starmer, the Labour Party has largely avoided reopening the Brexit debate, maintaining that Britain would not rejoin the EU single market or customs union. However, Streeting’s remarks have now pushed the issue back into public discussion.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, another major Labour figure, also suggested there could be a “long-term case” for rejoining the EU, though he clarified it was not part of his immediate campaign agenda.
Conservatives and Reform UK Respond Quickly
Conservative Party officials accused Labour of becoming distracted by old political battles instead of focusing on inflation, public services, and economic issues. Reform UK also seized on the comments, especially in Brexit-supporting regions where Eurosceptic sentiment remains strong.
The renewed political clash highlights how Brexit continues to shape Britain’s political landscape nearly a decade after the 2016 referendum.
Sources: BBC News / Reuters / ITV News
