News / Politics
Knives out for Corbyn
All three of Bristol’s Labour MPs have joined the post-Brexit rebellion against party leader Jeremy Corbyn, with Thangam Debbonaire completing the revolt by resigning from her role as Shadow Arts and Culture Minister.
Her move follows Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy’s decision to step down from her role as Shadow Environment Secretary in the wake of Corbyn’s sacking of Hilary Benn. Bristol South MP Karin Smyth has also called for a new leader, saying Corbyn’s position is now “untenable”.
Tom Watson, Labour’s deputy leader, has urged Corbyn to step down saying he has “no authority” in the wake of half of the shadow cabinet resigning and dozens more shadow ministers and aides also leaving. Corbyn insisted he will remain leader.
Debbonaire became the last of the three Bristol Labour MPs to go public with her views, writing in an email to her local members saying: “David Cameron’s resignation is likely to spark a general election.
“We need to be ready to win it. I am sorry to say that I believe that, with Jeremy Corbyn in charge, we would not be in a position to win over the general public. I also do not believe he is the right person to show strong leadership through Brexit negotiations.” Debbonaire also released a statement to the public.
Earlier on Monday Smyth had written to her local members saying she was in favour of a new leader. She said: “The leader of the Labour Party must have a clear plan for government, and have the credibility and competence to deliver it. It is increasingly evident to me that Jeremy Corbyn is not that leader, and that his position has become untenable.”
McCarthy’s resignation from the front bench came on Sunday, shortly after Benn had been sacked allegedly encouraging ministers to resign. She told Corbyn in her resignation letter: “Although I do not doubt your personal commitment to your long held-principles, I believe that a new leader is needed to take on the challenges ahead.”
Some Labour supporters have reacted angrily to the resignations, calling them a “coup” against the leader. Shortly after the resignations a petition was launched for a vote of no confidence in Thangam Debbonaire.
Pictured clockwise from right: Jeremy Corbyn, Thangam Debbonaire, Kerry McCarthy and Karin Smyth
Read more: Bristol South MP joins Corbyn criticism
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