Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has expressed bewilderment at the lack of policy discussion in the ongoing debate surrounding the potential Labour leadership contest between current leader Keir Starmer and newly elected MP Andy Burnham.
Corbyn Highlights Lack of Policy Debate
Speaking to Sky News, Corbyn described the media's focus on personalities as "very strange." He stated: "All of the media are very focused on a debate between the personalities, and no stage does any policy debate actually come into it, which I find very strange."
Corbyn's Critique of Burnham's Economic Policies
Corbyn, who defeated Burnham in the 2015 Labour leadership election, noted that while he gets along well with the new Makerfield MP, he strongly disagrees with his economic approach. Corbyn argued that Burnham's policies appear "to be accepting too much of the austerity that we’ve had imposed upon us and doesn’t appear to be doing anything, as I can see it, differently internationally."
The former leader's comments come amid speculation about a potential challenge to Starmer's leadership, with Burnham being touted as a possible contender. However, Corbyn's remarks suggest that the contest, if it materialises, should be fought on ideological grounds rather than personal appeal.
This is not the first time Corbyn has criticised the direction of the Labour Party under Starmer. He has previously voiced concerns over the party's move towards the political centre and away from the left-wing policies he championed.
