Liz McInnes welcomes the Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer to Heywood

Liz McInnes welcomes the Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer to Heywood

Liz McInnes, Labour candidate for Heywood and Middleton in the general election on 8 June, welcomed the Shadow Brexit Secretary Sir Keir Starmer to Heywood on Friday (19 May).

Mr Starmer and Ms McInnes met with local Labour Party members and supporters at Sandon House Community Centre to talk about the election campaign and Labour's plans for Brexit.

Speaking at the event, Mr Starmer said: “Britain voted to leave the EU and Labour fully accepts that. We now need to negotiate the best possible deal for our country so that places like Heywood and Middleton don't lose out. The Tories' threats to walk away from EU negotiations without a deal are reckless. Failing to agree a deal would have a seriously negative impact on jobs, our economy, trade, and much more.

“Labour recognises the dangers of no deal, and so we will reject this as a viable option and if necessary will negotiate transitional arrangements to avoid a cliff-edge for the UK economy. Unlike the Tories, we would also place a strong emphasis on retaining the benefits of the Single Market and Customs Union which are essential for industries, jobs and businesses in Britain.

“Liz is a vocal and passionate supporter in parliament for her local area and I know she will fight as hard as possible for a Brexit deal that protects jobs and growth in Heywood and Middleton, and I believe only Labour can deliver such a deal.”

Ms McInnes said: “I voted to trigger Article 50 in line with the majority of voters both here and in the country. We now need the best possible Brexit deal for Heywood and Middleton to protect local jobs, our economy, and our rights at work.

“I don't have any confidence in the Tories to deliver a fair Brexit deal for us and the fact that they are committed to the idea that no deal would somehow be acceptable shows they have a reckless attitude to the huge task ahead and its possible impact on ordinary families and our economy.

“I will fight for a fair Brexit deal that prioritises jobs and the economy, and I'd like to thank Keir for coming to Heywood to speak to members ahead of the vital election on 8 June.”