Politics Weekly UK ‘We’ve taken our progressive voters for granted’: Labour ex-minister
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Sep 25, 2025 Lucy Powell, Labour MP for Manchester Central and former cabinet minister, discusses her bid for deputy leadership and the urgent need for Labour to reconnect with progressive voters. She argues the party has taken their support for granted and must craft a unifying vision. Powell critiques the government's failure to address the rise of Reform UK and emphasizes the importance of clear immigration messaging. She also reflects on her political journey, advocating for reforms that prioritize worker rights while warning against divisive tactics and groupthink within the party.
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Reframe The Debate On Causes
- Lucy Powell says Labour must wrestle back the megaphone from Nigel Farage and challenge his diagnosis of Britain's problems.
- She argues the root causes are economic inequality, not immigration, and Labour must state that clearly.
Make Clear Who You Represent
- Be explicit about whose side you are on and tell that story in every policy and message.
- Use authenticity and attention to connect with ordinary working and non-working people.
Lost Progressive Voters Matter
- Powell warns Labour has lost support on both sides and taken progressive voters for granted.
- She says beating Reform requires a clear, unifying vision that addresses living standards and economic reform.