URGENT UPDATE: Kemi Badenoch has just accused the Labour Party of reigniting old Brexit divisions to bolster its core support. This accusation follows recent calls from senior ministers for the UK to pursue a closer relationship with the European Union.
In a statement released today, Badenoch, the Conservative Party leader, criticized these proposals as indicative of a government lacking a coherent plan. She warned that moving towards rejoining the European customs union could jeopardize existing trade agreements with major partners like the United States and India. “This is not pragmatism; it is a sign of Labour’s weakness,” Badenoch asserted.
The backdrop of this controversy includes remarks from Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who suggested that a stronger trading relationship with the EU could enhance the UK’s economy. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has declined to dismiss the possibility of reversing Brexit entirely.
Badenoch’s comments are particularly pointed, as she argues that the push for a customs union reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of trade policy. “Trade policy is power,” she stressed, warning that relinquishing control would undermine Britain’s sovereignty.
In her New Year’s message, Badenoch encouraged the public not to lose hope amid rising taxes and unemployment under Labour. “Don’t let the politics of grievance dictate our future,” she said, urging voters to advocate for change ahead of the 2026 elections.
The political landscape is further complicated by remarks from TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak, who has urged Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to reconsider his stance on a customs union despite it being a red line for the Prime Minister.
As the debate intensifies, former Tory minister Lord Gove expressed regret over the fallout from the Brexit referendum, suggesting that a different approach might have led to a more effective implementation of the Vote Leave campaign’s objectives.
Stay tuned for updates as this political battle unfolds, with significant implications for the UK’s future relationship with Europe.
