Labour MPs create a ‘pressure group’ to push Starmer to take a stronger stand on immigration
The Labour Party is facing internal tensions as 35 of its MPs from “red wall” constituencies form a pressure group urging Leader Sir Keir Starmer to toughen his stance on immigration. These MPs fear losing their seats to Reform UK, which has been gaining traction as a political force.
This development comes amid growing concerns in traditionally Labour-voting areas where constituents have voiced frustration over immigration policies and their broader impact on public services like housing, healthcare, and the cost of living.
Red wall MPs, representing constituencies that shifted between Labour and Conservative in recent elections, are now worried about holding onto their voter base. One MP, speaking anonymously, told GB News: “Our constituents are watching their towns and cities change rapidly, and they want answers. If Labour doesn’t address immigration head-on, we risk being outflanked by Reform UK.”
This pressure group has reportedly been nicknamed the “Wet Flannels” due to their perceived lack of influence within the party’s leadership. However, their demands are clear: tougher immigration policies to reflect the concerns of their constituents, many of whom voted for Brexit and later switched to the Conservatives in 2019.
Labour Leader Keir Starmer has come under fire from both within and outside his party for failing to resonate with voters on this issue. His critics argue that he appears out of touch with the working-class values that Labour once represented.
Diane Abbott, the former Labour MP and ally of Jeremy Corbyn, recently criticized Starmer, saying, “He doesn’t have a feel for politics or the Labour Party. He doesn’t represent the values we once stood for.”
This sentiment echoes the frustrations of many Labour supporters who see Starmer as overly cautious and disconnected. Abbott’s remarks have been gaining traction, with commentators pointing out that even those critical of her find themselves agreeing with her assessment of Starmer.
The backdrop to this tension is the rapid rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. Reform has positioned itself as the only party speaking directly to voter concerns about immigration, crime, and public services. As one political analyst put it: “Reform UK is doing what Labour and the Conservatives won’t—offering clear policies on immigration that resonate with everyday voters.”
Reform’s popularity in red wall areas threatens to upset the political balance. Labour’s traditional strongholds, once thought unshakable, are now at risk.
The MPs forming this group argue that immigration isn’t just about numbers—it ties into broader issues like access to GP appointments, housing shortages, and antisocial behavior. One MP stated: “Immigration is at the heart of these problems. We can’t separate these issues from the conversation if we want to find real solutions.”
However, critics of this view say the focus on immigration overshadows systemic issues in the NHS, education, and public infrastructure. Jonathan List, a journalist, argued on GB News: “We’ve always been a nation of immigrants. Blaming immigration for everything doesn’t solve the root problems—it’s just an easy scapegoat.”
For Starmer, this situation presents a dilemma. On the one hand, leaning into stricter immigration policies risks alienating progressive Labour voters and further dividing the party. On the other hand, ignoring the demands of red wall MPs could cost Labour crucial seats in the next general election.
As one commentator on GB News pointed out: “Labour must find a way to reconnect with working-class voters. Immigration is a lightning rod issue, and if they don’t address it, they’ll leave the door wide open for Reform UK to make gains.”
The coming months will test Starmer’s leadership as Labour navigates this internal conflict while trying to appeal to a broad voter base. For now, the pressure is mounting, and the question remains: Can Labour unite behind a clear, strong stance on immigration before it’s too late?
