Jeremy Corbyn-backing Momentum calls for all Labour MPs to face open reselection races in a bid to purge moderates
The powerful Momentum movement is backing controversial rule changes that moderate Labour MPs have slammed as a cynical bid for power
JEREMY Corbyn’s hard left pressure group today calls for all Labour MPs to face open reselection races in a bid to purge dozens of moderates.
The powerful Momentum movement declared it will back highly controversial rule changes proposed by members at the party’s annual conference in Liverpool this month.
Open races instead of the traditional readoption of sitting MPs would bring in “a new generation of Labour MPs”, the radical group said last night.
Moderate Labour MPs slammed the plan last night as a cynical bid by Momentum to gerrymander its own supporters into Parliament.
Birmingham MP and women MPs chair Jess Phillips said: “If this summer is anything to go by Labour should be wary of starting another internal battle.
“This is dressed up as helping us talking to ordinary people but is in fact us talking about ourselves again.
It is said the powerful Momentum movement wants to purge moderates - founder of Momentum, Jon Lansman, pictured in 2016
“Momentum should be honest and just say they want their people in power and this is the best way. Call a spade a spade and stop pretending it’s for the good of the party or country.”
Veteran former minister John Spellar added: “While John McDonnell is calling for unity, Jon Lansman is trying to take us back to the 1980s by starting a civil war.”
The rule change bid will mean Labour’s annual gathering in Liverpool in three weeks time will see bitter fights over votes on the conference floor.
Jess Philips Mp said: Momentum should be honest and just say they want their people in power
Momentum said last night: “Labour’s selection procedure should be democratic, give a fair chance to all candidates and encourage positive campaigning.
“This means ending the divisive practise of forcing activists to campaign against sitting MPs and replacing it with a process that is open from the start.
“Momentum will work with NEC members, the trade union movement, and CLP delegates in order to ensure the best possible rule change is passed at this year’s Party Conference to achieve this end.”
- GOT a news story? RING us on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]