Wes Streeting’s Brexit play may be clever gamesmanship – but it has nothing to do with Europe | Anand Menon
Wes Streeting's recent comments on Brexit reflect a strategic approach within the Labour party as leadership contenders navigate their positions on EU relations. While Streeting hints at a desire for a closer relationship with the EU, his statements remain vague and non-committal. The ongoing negotiations and the Labour party's internal dynamics highlight the complexities of formulating a coherent EU policy going forward.
- ▪Wes Streeting is using Brexit as a strategic tool in his leadership bid for the Labour party.
- ▪His recent speech included vague references to a potential 'special relationship' with the EU.
- ▪The Labour party faces internal pressure to clarify its stance on EU relations as negotiations stall.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Wes Streeting on Whitehall, February 2026. ‘[He has said] as little that commits him to actually doing anything as possible.’ Photograph: Toby Melville/ReutersView image in fullscreenWes Streeting on Whitehall, February 2026. ‘[He has said] as little that commits him to actually doing anything as possible.’ Photograph: Toby Melville/ReutersOpinionLabour party leadershipWes Streeting’s Brexit play may be clever gamesmanship – but it has nothing to do with EuropeAnand MenonTen years after the referendum, its role as domestic football is still the order of day – and the ex-health secretary is happy to use it in his leadership bidAnand Menon is director of The UK in a Changing EuropeTue 19 May 2026 03.00 EDTLast modified on Tue 19 May 2026 03.03 EDTShareBrexit, it seems, is back.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — Politics.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Guardian — Politics
