Streeting sends new warning to Labour over Reform threat – what he said

Politics
20 May 2026 • 11:19 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Streeting sends new warning to Labour over Reform threat – what he said

  • Wes Streeting, who recently resigned as health secretary, warned that the Labour Government is failing to combat nationalism and risks losing power to Reform UK.
  • In his resignation speech, Streeting asserted that nationalists are now in power across the UK, posing an "existential threat" to the country's integrity.
  • He criticised Labour for not adequately addressing the "AI jobs apocalypse" and the declining prospects for young people, stating that mainstream politics must provide answers.
  • Streeting's comments intensify pressure on Sir Keir Starmer's leadership, particularly amid speculation of a challenge from Andy Burnham, who is standing in the Makerfield by-election.
  • Streeting, who intends to stand in any future leadership contest, concluded his speech with "no regrets and with rebellious hope," urging Labour to deliver real change.

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