Labour MPs Propose New Policies to Combat Rightwing Populism

A group of Labour MPs is set to introduce a series of new policies aimed at countering rightwing populism in the UK. This initiative includes advocating for a Swiss-style agreement with the European Union (EU), lowering electricity prices, reinforcing climate policies, and reducing reliance on the United States. The pamphlet, titled *Common Endeavour*, features contributions from several prominent Labour figures, including former cabinet minister Anneliese Dodds and Labour MP Andrew Lewin, who is advocating for deeper economic ties with the EU and greater freedom of movement.

The Guardian

Among the authors of the pamphlet are MPs with significant roles in government, such as Jeevun Sandher, Luke Murphy, Anna Gelderd, and Liam Byrne. Sandher emphasizes the urgency of addressing the affordability crisis and the societal challenges posed by both internal and external pressures. He states, “You can’t shrink away from it. We’re in the middle of a hurricane.” Lewin argues for a more confident approach to EU relations, suggesting that the Labour Party must engage in discussions about migration and economic collaboration.

The Guardian

Byrne's contribution highlights the need to view rightwing populism as a foreign influence undermining British social cohesion. He describes it as an “American franchise operating on British soil,” urging the party to campaign against it explicitly. Murphy, focusing on climate policy, advocates for a shift in how energy prices are structured, while Gelderd calls for the establishment of a UK sovereign fund to manage data and AI development, emphasizing the importance of democratic oversight.

The Guardian

The proposals from this group of Labour MPs are reminiscent of the Conservative Party's *Britannia Unchained* manifesto from 2010, which encouraged bold governance under David Cameron. Both initiatives reflect a response to changing political landscapes, with Labour MPs acknowledging the accelerated pace of change since 2024. Lewin notes, “The world is different in April 2026 than it was in July 2024,” indicating a need for the party to adapt its priorities in light of new challenges.

The Guardian

While the proposals aim to strengthen Labour's position, some critics may view them as reactive rather than proactive. The comparison to the Conservative manifesto suggests that the Labour Party may be struggling to define its own identity and vision amidst rising populism. The effectiveness of these proposals in revitalizing Labour's fortunes remains to be seen, especially as the party currently trails behind Reform, the Conservatives, and the Greens in polling.

The Guardian

The Labour MPs involved in this initiative express a collective desire to reshape the party's narrative and address pressing issues such as the cost of living and climate change. They emphasize the importance of making a positive case for Labour's vision, with Sandher stating that the party must “think hard about what its priorities are.”

The Guardian

• “You can’t shrink away from it. We’re in the middle of a hurricane. We’ve got an affordability crisis and smartphone-fuelled hate that’s tearing at us from within. You’ve got war and great power politics threatening us from without. And you have to deal with that all at a singular moment. That’s what we have step up and do.” — Jeevun Sandher, Labour MP

The Guardian

• “This has a profound impact on growth and there is a case for more movement with the EU from principally young professionals that’s good for the economy.” — Andrew Lewin, Labour MP

The Guardian

• “American franchise operating on British soil” — Liam Byrne, Labour MP

The Guardian

• “The world is different in April 2026 than it was in July 2024, nobody is going to doubt that.” — Andrew Lewin, Labour MP

The Guardian

The *Common Endeavour* pamphlet represents a strategic effort by Labour MPs to confront the challenges posed by rightwing populism and redefine the party's approach to governance in a rapidly changing political environment.

The Guardian