Defection sparks mixed reactions among Labour ranks, underscoring tensions around the party’s widening political tent

Keir Starmer, Labour Party leader, finds himself in a challenging position following the unexpected defection of Tory MP Natalie Elphicke to Labour. The Dover MP’s move has elicited a spectrum of emotions within her new party, from excitement to outright bewilderment. Canterbury MP Rosie Duffield captured this sentiment, describing the shift as “baffling” and “peculiar,” while senior Labour figures touted Elphicke’s defection as a significant win for Starmer. The defection underscores broader questions about Labour’s expanding political base as Elphicke’s hardline views and past controversies continue to raise eyebrows within the party. Starmer emphasized that Elphicke’s move signals Labour’s transformation into “the party of the national interest,” yet dissent persists among MPs concerned about Elphicke’s historical stance on immigration and public comments on sensitive issues.

Coverage from Major Publications

BBC

The BBC highlighted the sharp division within Labour ranks following Elphicke’s defection. While some praised Starmer’s bold move as “one hell of a coup,” others like Duffield expressed deep reservations about Elphicke’s political switch. They remained sceptical about her commitment to Labour values, given her previous criticisms of the party’s tax policies and handling of immigration. Furthermore, her controversial remarks regarding her ex-husband Charlie Elphicke, convicted of sexual assault, continue to unsettle many Labour MPs. The report also noted broader Tory discontent, with Transport Minister Huw Merriman labelling Elphicke “shameless” and an “opportunist.” Despite the backlash, Starmer sees the defection as a strategic win, indicating that it helps Labour draw former Conservative voters to its ranks, an aim central to his campaign.

The Guardian

The Guardian explored reactions from Elphicke’s Dover constituency, revealing a mixed reception among local voters. Many residents expressed loyalty to Elphicke as a linchpin in their community, citing her active involvement in church activities and stance on immigration. For instance, Robert Hewer, a previous Conservative voter, stated that Elphicke’s hardline views on immigration resonate strongly, while Mae Montenegro emphasized her consistent community involvement. Other residents remained more sceptical, with Frances Trewartha expressing confusion over Elphicke’s sudden switch. She described the political atmosphere as “bickering and nasty” while acknowledging that immigration is a sensitive local issue. Despite the uncertainty, some, like Alwyn Conway, indicated they might still vote for her given her strong community ties.

The Independent

The Independent reported that Elphicke’s dramatic switch blindsided Sunak’s government, which had hoped to rally Conservative MPs around local election results. Starmer’s team kept the defection secret until the last minute, leaving both Tory and Labour MPs stunned. Elphicke delivered a withering critique of Sunak’s government, calling it a “byword for incompetence and division.” Despite the joy among Labour’s leadership, the defection left many MPs questioning Starmer’s decision, given Elphicke’s previous hard-right views on immigration and vocal criticism of Labour policies. The backlash from both ends reflects internal party tensions, with Labour staffers calling for stricter vetting of defecting MPs. John McDonnell, a prominent left-wing Labour figure, described Elphicke’s move as a “stunt,” while noting that Labour needs to uphold its values.

Sky News

Sky News focused on Starmer’s response to concerns over Elphicke’s defection and where Labour would draw the line for defectors. Shadow Frontbencher Anneliese Dodds clarified that the party would reject figures like Nigel Farage, whose values she described as “completely inimical.” Dodds emphasized that Elphicke expressed shared concerns about housing, aligning her with Labour’s priorities despite her historical right-wing positions. However, former Labour leader Neil Kinnock urged the party to remain “choosy” about new members, stressing the importance of ideological boundaries. He pointed out that Elphicke must prove her commitment to Labour principles to be fully embraced. The report also noted Conservative ministers’ shock at Elphicke’s betrayal, particularly given her prior alignment with right-wing values