Labour's Left warns: Don't purge us, we will have our say in new government

Jonathan Walker and David Williamson

- Jonathan Walker and David Williamson

LABOUR left-wingers last night vowed that bids to “purge” them from the party will fail – and warned they will demand a say in any government led by Sir Keir Starmer.

There was fury this week over the treatment of Diane Abbott, the first Black female MP, who was apparently blocked from standing in next month’s election.

On Friday, Labour leader Sir Keir bowed to pressure and confirmed she could still be a candidate.

His coolness towards her was seen as part of a deliberate attempt to force supporters of ex-leader Jeremy Corbyn from the party.

But Labour moderates, as well as figures on the Left, are warning that Sir Keir may need the support of Corbynites if he does become Prime Minister next month.

A source said: “It’s not true that the Left has been marginalised. Far from it.”