Nandy Dismisses Streeting’s EU Rejoin Call as ‘Odd’ Ahead of Labour Leadership Contest

UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has rejected calls from former cabinet colleague Wes Streeting for Britain to rejoin the European Union, describing the proposal as “odd” and counterproductive to current government priorities. Speaking to the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg, Nandy clarified that while she personally campaigned for Remain and views the original Brexit decision as a mistake, she does not support reopening the debate at this juncture. She argued that such discussions risk disrupting the pragmatic efforts required to repair the economic damage inflicted by the Brexit deal on living standards.

The comments follow a speech delivered by Streeting in London, where the former health secretary argued that the UK’s future lies with Europe to rebuild the economy and strengthen defence against shared threats, including Russian aggression and shifting US policies. Streeting, who resigned from the cabinet this week, stated that Britain needs a “new special relationship” with the EU and indicated his intention to stand in a leadership contest if one is called, although it remains unclear whether he commands sufficient parliamentary support.

Nandy emphasised that the issue of the UK’s relationship with the EU was largely settled by the referendum held ten years ago. She insisted that Prime Minister Keir Starmer was correct to rule out rejoining the bloc, noting that the government is currently focused on addressing the “needless damage” caused by the exit without engaging in what she termed “circular arguments.” Her intervention underscores the internal tensions within the Labour Party as it navigates the fallout from Streeting’s resignation and the looming political tests ahead.

Political scrutiny is intensifying ahead of the Makerfield byelection, which is expected to serve as a significant barometer for the party’s direction. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is anticipated to challenge Starmer for the leadership, with his policy positions under close examination. Burnham told ITV News that while there may be a long-term case for rejoining the EU, it would not be a focus of his campaign in the byelection, urging a domestic focus on immediate issues affecting voters.

Meanwhile, Labour MP Josh Simons, who is vacating the Makerfield seat, suggested that nationalisation of utilities such as energy, water, and social housing could form a key part of Burnham’s pitch. Simons cited high costs driven by privatisation as a critical concern for voters. Nandy also confirmed that Starmer has indicated he will enter a leadership race if called, describing the Prime Minister as “up for a fight” and suggesting he has not abandoned hope of remaining in office.