Starmer Stirs Up Labour’s Brexit Divisions and Expresses Desire to Revise Deal
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has expressed his intention to renegotiate Britain’s trade deal with the European Union if he becomes the next prime minister. In an interview with the Financial Times, Sir Keir criticized the current trade deal struck by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, calling it insufficient. He stated that his goal would be to secure a much better deal for the UK.
Sir Keir recently attended a meeting with other progressive left leaders in Montreal, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He is also expected to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron later this week.
The Labour Party suffered a significant defeat in the 2019 election, losing many traditionally Labour-voting constituencies in the Midlands and the North of England to the Conservative Party. One of the main factors contributing to this loss was Labour’s stance on Brexit, with many pro-Brexit voters switching their support to the Conservatives. While some Labour voters in these constituencies may have concerns about Sir Keir re-opening Brexit wounds, he has ruled out rejoining the customs union or single market and remains confident in his ability to negotiate a better deal with the EU.
Additionally, Sir Keir has expressed his willingness to consider a deal that would involve Britain taking a quota of illegal immigrants from Europe. However, he has refuted claims made by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary Suella Braverman that Labour intends to turn the UK into a “dumping ground” for migrants.
If elected, Sir Keir has emphasized his focus on growing the economy and enabling increased spending on public services without raising taxes. Despite facing criticism and insults from opponents, he remains undeterred in his determination to bring about positive change.
Source: Financial Times
