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Fri, 20 Mar 2026

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 Sir John Curtice: Why Labour's Brexit focus has shifted from Leavers to Remainers

Will the pursuit of a closer relationship with the EU risk courting electoral disaster by alienating Brexit-backing voters?
Labour's Brexit Strategy
* The Labour Party has been trying to "reset" Britain's relationship with the EU, but going no further than that.
* This approach is based on the presumption that it would be welcomed by Labour's pro-EU supporters without upsetting its minority of Brexiteers. Polling and Public Opinion
* A recent YouGov poll found that 82% of Labour voters support Britain rejoining the EU, while only 12% are opposed.
* Another poll in December reported that 73% of Labour voters support starting negotiations for Britain to rejoin the EU.
* However, some polls suggest that the popularity of specific elements of the reset strategy cannot be taken for granted. Trade-Offs and Potential Risks
* The core of the party's strategy has been getting rid of customs checks on exports of food and agricultural products from Britain to the EU.
* A Redfield & Wilton poll found that Labour voters only narrowly favored following EU laws and regulations over British rules, indicating potential difficulties in selling this approach. Challenges Ahead
* The article suggests that Labour's reset strategy may not be enough to restore its electoral fortunes, particularly since its vote has fallen significantly among pro-EU-minded voters.
* To win back these voters, the party needs to adopt a more radical approach, such as rejoining the EU or starting negotiations for Britain to do so. Conclusion The article concludes that Labour's Brexit strategy is complex and potentially fraught with risks. The party's ability to persuade its supporters of the merits of specific elements of the reset strategy will be crucial in determining the success of its efforts to "reset" Britain's relationship with the EU.