By Our Correspondent

National News – Brexit has returned to the centre of British politics as senior members of the Labour Party openly clash over the United Kingdom’s future relationship with the European Union.

The renewed debate comes amid growing leadership tensions within Labour and ahead of the crucial Makerfield by-election expected in June.

Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting sparked controversy during a political conference in London when he described Brexit as a “catastrophic mistake.”

He announced plans to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership, arguing that the UK must rebuild closer ties with Europe to revive economic growth and strengthen international influence.
Streeting stated that Brexit had weakened Britain economically and politically.

He proposed a “special relationship” with Europe and suggested the UK could eventually return to the European Union if voters approved such a move in a future general election.

The comments quickly triggered criticism from the Conservative Party, with party chairman Kevin Hollinrake accusing Labour of reopening divisions instead of focusing on rising living costs, public services and national security.

Meanwhile, Andy Burnham, who is campaigning to become Labour’s candidate in the Makerfield by-election, also came under pressure over his past support for closer EU ties.

Burnham admitted there could be a long-term case for rejoining the bloc but insisted the by-election campaign would focus on economic recovery, housing development and industrial growth in northwest England.

The debate has also given momentum to Reform UK, which hopes to attract Brexit-supporting voters in Makerfield.

The party noted that a majority of voters in the constituency backed leaving the EU during the 2016 referendum.

Political analysts say the renewed Brexit debate highlights deep divisions within British politics as parties position themselves ahead of future national elections.