Keir Starmer's Crossroads: The Imperative for a Bold European Vision

The Task at Hand: Recognizing the Shifting Sands of Brexit

In the aftermath of the Brexit referendum, UK politics has experienced a seismic shift that continues to ripple through the fabric of Labour's identity. Keir Starmer's approach to Brexit has long focused on securing the party's footing among Leave voters. However, as the tides of public opinion turn, he must reconsider his strategy with boldness and urgency.

A Glimpse into the Past: Starmer's Turning Point

Seven years ago, Starmer electrified the Labour conference with a mere eight words: “Nobody is ruling out remain as an option.” That statement not only earned him a moment of fervor but also marked the beginning of his challenge against the then-leader Jeremy Corbyn. It signaled a shift towards prioritizing pro-European sentiments within the party, striking a chord with Labour members disillusioned with the leadership's reluctance to embrace a Remain stance.

Consequences of Inaction: The Risks of Complacency

Fast forward to today, and Starmer finds himself in uncharted waters. While he initially asserted that the 2019 election settled Brexit, it has become evident that many in the party, including key influencers like Rachel Reeves, are concerned about the damaging consequences of the UK's exit from the EU. Polling suggests that a significant portion of the electorate has shifted its position on Brexit, warranting a spirited response from Labour's leadership.

Charting a New Course: The Path Forward

Starmer has recently intensified his critique of Brexit's negative impact on the UK economy—an effort to leverage the current political climate against challenges from figures like Nigel Farage. Yet, sharing a critique is not sufficient; action is required. The government's recent plan to rejoin the Erasmus programme signals intent, but it's merely a small step towards addressing the broader challenges the nation faces. The cost of Brexit looms large, with estimates suggesting that the UK economy is up to 8% smaller than it would have been had it remained in the EU. Starmer's attempts to negotiate new deals have not yielded significant returns, thus far lacking the innovation that the situation demands.

Internal Dissent: Navigating the Party's Divide

The internal dynamics within Labour can't be ignored. With whispers of leadership aspirations among figures like Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner, Starmer risks ceding ground if he does not take proactive steps towards a stronger European orientation. If he fails to present a compelling vision for Labour's future engagement with the EU, he may inadvertently enable his rivals to tap into the pro-Europe fervor that is growing within the party.

Global Context: The Complications of Geopolitics

Starmer's hesitance might be driven by multifaceted factors. A consideration of British geopolitical maneuverings, particularly in relation to a potentially isolationist US politics, further complicates the Labour leader's position. The recent US national security document suggests a shift in global dynamics, one that downplays Britain's traditional role and could add additional pressure to Starmer's already contested leadership.

Urgency in Action: The Time for Bold Decisions

It is time for Starmer to awaken from his political slumber. Being reactive is no longer a viable strategy in this evolving landscape. He must take the initiative, announcing negotiations for a customs union now to capture the support of party members who crave a more integrated approach with the EU.

A Call to Reflect on the Past: Lessons Unlearned

Starmer's previous comments from seven years ago resonate today—not as mere echoes of the past but as vital lessons for the present. As he reflects on the pivotal nature of those words delivered at the conference, he must consider the potential of not only reviving Labour's narrative on Europe but also cementing a bold stance that realigns it with the aspirations of a party that seeks to move forward.

Conclusion: Charting a New Course

In conclusion, this is a pivotal moment for Keir Starmer. While the challenges posed by Brexit and shifting public sentiment are significant, they also present an opportunity to redefine Labour's future. He must act decisively and propose an aspirational vision that resonates not just within the party, but across the UK. I believe this is not just a challenge but an imperative. The time for boldness is now, before the opportunity slips away completely.

“If Starmer rules out more meaningful steps towards a close relationship with the EU, he allows rivals to occupy the space where the overwhelming majority of Labour MPs, members and voters are to be found.”

Tom Baldwin is the author of Keir Starmer, The Biography.