Labour mayors call for unity as tensions rise within the party over Keir Starmer’s first year in government. Regional leaders, including Steve Rotheram and Tracy Brabin, have openly criticized Downing Street’s missteps, calling the administration “disjointed” from the wider Labour movement.
Rotheram, Mayor of Liverpool City Region, argued that repeated policy U-turns have frustrated supporters. He emphasized that many mistakes could have been avoided with better communication. “People see this as a mess of our own making,” he said, calling for unity among Labour mayors. “We must listen to those who want to back Labour but feel ignored.”
Meanwhile, Tracy Brabin, West Yorkshire’s Mayor, urged Starmer to prioritize devolution. She warned that some departments have sidelined local leaders despite their success in driving regional growth. “The devolution revolution is fading,” she said. For Labour, mayors calling for unity could be pivotal. “Empowering mayors can restore public trust in politics.”
Moreover, South Yorkshire’s Oliver Coppard echoed these concerns but noted improvements over Conservative rule. He praised ministers for being more receptive to regional needs. “This government listens,” he said. He emphasized how Labour needs unity, and how it must act faster to deliver real change.”
Angela Rayner, Local Government Secretary, has pledged to expand devolution across England. New mayoral elections in 2026 could bring decision-making closer to millions of voters. Experts say this shift could redefine governance for decades. As Labour works toward unified leadership, the role of Labour mayors is integral.
Therefore, Labour mayors call for unity to strengthen the party’s direction. Rotheram stressed that regional leaders are ready to help but need more involvement. “We can showcase Labour’s successes,” he said. “But we must work together not in silos.”
As Starmer’s team faces mounting scrutiny, the message from Labour’s mayors is clear: collaboration, not isolation, will determine the party’s future. The call for unity among Labour mayors is evident to prevent further setbacks.
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