It’s byelection bingo! Get ready for the Brexit arguments you heard 10 years ago, only louder
Makerfield will be a test of what Labour would have to look like to beat Reform – so prepare yourself for regrets, broken promises and baffling assertions about ‘red wall’ voters
TL;DR
- The Makerfield byelection is seen as a popularity contest for Andy Burnham, a test for Labour's leadership, and a gauge of their ability to defeat Reform.
- Politicians are repeating past arguments about Brexit, with Keir Starmer admitting it made Britain poorer, less secure, and increased migration.
- Starmer has also pledged to rebuild Britain's relationship with Europe, a move reminiscent of his past stance as Brexit secretary.
- Backbencher Jonathan Hinder warns against reopening the Brexit debate, citing recent electoral "beatings" in working-class areas.
- Wes Streeting calls Brexit a "catastrophic mistake" and suggests rejoining the EU would benefit the economy, aligning with the views of many Labour voters.
- David Lammy suggests an end to the Brexit debate, advocating for Labour to stop talking and unite.
- The article suggests Brexit has created a disconnect between political language and reality, with unchanged rhetoric despite changed circumstances.