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Two Labour MPs closest to defecting to the Greens if Andy Burnham does not become Prime Minister
The Daily Telegraph reports that some Labour MPs are preparing to defect to the Green Party if Andy Burnham does not win the upcoming by-election and become Prime Minister. Clive Lewis (Norwich) and Richard Bergen (Leeds) are said to be the two MPs closest to defecting, reflecting long-standing frustration on the left of the party.
The Daily Telegraph reports that some Labour MPs are preparing to defect to the Green Party, with two Members of Parliament said to be closest to making the move. The potential defections reflect a long-standing frustration among those on the left of the Labour Party, primarily from the socialist campaign group, who feel the party's direction does not align with their politics.
According to the report, potential defectors believe that if Andy Burnham wins the upcoming by-election and becomes Prime Minister, they would be content to stay as they expect Labour would pursue a more left-wing agenda under his leadership. However, if Burnham does not succeed, Clive Lewis and Richard Bergen are said to be the two MPs most likely to cross the floor.
Clive Lewis represents a Norwich constituency where the Greens are targeting heavily, having already won a seat there in 2024 that they had never previously held. Richard Bergen sits in Leeds, another metropolitan area with a large student population where the Green Party has made significant inroads in recent elections.
Downing Street sources suggest they are aware this is a possibility but view it as manageable. However, the more cynical interpretation suggested by commentators is that these MPs believe they are likely to lose their seats to the Greens regardless and therefore see defection as a survival strategy rather than a purely ideological choice.
If any defections do occur, there will be immediate questions about whether the departing MPs should hold by-elections to seek a fresh mandate from their constituents. The situation adds another layer of complexity to the Labour Party's internal challenges at a time when questions about the future direction of the party and its leadership are already dominating Westminster politics.