Canterbury MP Rosie Duffield has resigned from the Labour Party, citing dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his policies. In a strongly-worded resignation letter, Duffield criticised the government’s “cruel and unnecessary” policies and accused Starmer of “hypocrisy” for accepting thousands of pounds worth of gifts.
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Duffield’s departure makes her the first MP to leave the party since the general election, and her resignation marks a significant challenge to Starmer’s leadership.
Criticism of Starmer’s Leadership and Policies
In her resignation letter, Duffield expressed her frustration with Starmer’s leadership, accusing him and his team of “sleaze, nepotism, and apparent avarice.” She said, “I’m so ashamed of what you and your inner circle have done to tarnish and humiliate our once proud party.”
Her decision to leave comes after a Sky News report revealed that Starmer had accepted £107,145 worth of gifts, benefits, and hospitality since becoming Labour leader in December 2019. This included designer suits and glasses, which Duffield called “hypocrisy” given Labour’s stance on supporting low-income families.
Duffield, who has previously clashed with Starmer on gender issues, was particularly critical of the government’s decision to maintain policies like the two-child benefit cap and means-testing for winter fuel payments. She called these policies “cruel and unnecessary” and accused the prime minister of being out of touch with the realities facing ordinary people.
Accusations of Hypocrisy and Discontent Among MPs
In her letter, Duffield expressed her anger over what she described as Starmer’s hypocrisy in accepting luxury gifts while supporting policies that disproportionately harm vulnerable families. “Someone with far-above-average wealth choosing to keep the Conservatives’ two-child limit to benefit payments, while inexplicably accepting expensive personal gifts, is entirely undeserving of holding the title of Labour prime minister,” she wrote.
Duffield also criticised the treatment of fellow MP Diane Abbott, who had previously claimed she was being blocked from standing in the next general election before Starmer confirmed she could defend her Hackney North and Stoke Newington seat.
Strained Relationship with Labour Leadership
Duffield’s relationship with Labour’s leadership has been strained for some time. Her decision to resign comes after seven Labour MPs were suspended for rebelling by voting in favour of a motion to abolish the two-child benefit cap. Her letter emphasised her dissatisfaction with the party’s direction under Starmer, reflecting broader discontent among some members.
Despite leaving Labour, Duffield has vowed to continue representing her constituents as an independent MP. She said she will be “guided by my core Labour values” in her work going forward.
What’s Next for Labour?
Duffield’s resignation is a blow to Labour as the party faces criticism over its policy decisions and leadership style. Her departure may embolden other MPs who are dissatisfied with the direction of the party, especially regarding economic policies and social justice issues.
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