Streeting has declared his intention to compete in any leadership election to succeed British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Wes Streeting, the former UK health secretary, described the UK’s exit from the European Union as a «disastrous error» while launching his campaign to become the nation’s next prime minister.

ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT

Having resigned from his Cabinet role earlier this month, Streeting has publicly demanded Keir Starmer’s resignation as leader and confirmed on Saturday that he will enter any leadership contest.

Addressing the Labour Party’s Progress conference, Streeting also criticised Brexit.

«There are three crucial decisions the country must make to restore a sense of advancement,» he told attendees.

«First, leaving the European Union was a disastrous error. It has rendered us poorer, diminished our influence, and reduced our autonomy to levels unseen since before the industrial era,» he stated.

Later in his address, he advocated for the UK’s reentry into the EU.

«A renewed special relationship with the EU is essential, as Britain’s future is intertwined with Europe and, ultimately, will be back within the European Union,» he asserted.

In a 2016 referendum, the UK voted to exit the EU after a divisive campaign led by former Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson, along with considerable backing from Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party.

The decision has come under renewed scrutiny recently as the UK seeks closer ties with Europe amid uncertainties surrounding its relations with US President Donald Trump.

Streeting’s remarks arrive as Starmer confronts mounting pressure following significant losses for Labour and gains for Reform in recent local elections.