Wednesday, May 20Wednesday, May 20Keir Starmer’s leadership of the Labour Party is under increasing pressure amid internal divisions over Brexit and a potential leadership challenge. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has warned that continued infighting over the UK’s relationship with the EU risks handing power to Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, urging the party to unite ahead of the upcoming Makerfield by-election . Lammy has also dismissed speculation about Starmer’s departure, stating that no timetable for his exit is being considered, though he acknowledged that Andy Burnham would be a "great addition" to Parliament if he wins the by-election. However, Lammy described the leadership row as a "spectacular own goal" for Labour .
The Makerfield by-election has become a focal point for Labour’s internal strife, with Burnham’s chances of victory described as "less than 50:50" by party sources, raising concerns that a loss could plunge the party into further chaos . Burnham’s allies have accused former Health Secretary Wes Streeting of attempting to derail his leadership ambitions by reigniting the Brexit debate, with Streeting’s recent comments on rejoining the EU sparking a backlash. Burnham has reportedly performed a "Brexit U-turn," positioning himself as more skeptical of EU reintegration to counter Reform UK’s influence in the by-election .
The Brexit debate has resurfaced as a major fault line within Labour, with Streeting’s leadership bid explicitly linked to his stance on reversing Brexit. His resignation as Health Secretary and subsequent announcement to challenge Starmer have intensified the party’s internal divisions, with allies of Burnham accusing Streeting of undermining Labour’s unity . The conflict has drawn criticism from Conservative figures, including Lord Gove, who accused both Streeting and Burnham of "Brexit betrayal," while Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch dismissed Labour’s ability to negotiate with the EU . The infighting has revived broader questions about Labour’s future direction, particularly on Europe, as the party grapples with leadership uncertainty .
> Background: **Labour leadership hopeful reignites Brexit debate with EU rejoin call.** — *13 hours ago*
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