Labour Strategist Faces Backlash Amidst Welfare Bill Revolt

Morgan McSweeney, a key strategist for Labour, is facing intense scrutiny as the government navigates a significant parliamentary rebellion over its welfare bill. This challenge underscores the growing internal divisions and strategic debates within the party as it seeks to solidify its position.

The Architect Under Fire

McSweeney, the chief of staff to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is now at the center of criticism. Once lauded for his role in Labour’s substantial election win, he’s become a focal point as the government grapples with one of its most significant parliamentary rebellions.

McSweeney was instrumental in reshaping the party. He’s been accused of driving Starmer toward more fiscally conservative and immigration-skeptic positions.

“Everyone is selling shares in Morgan. People are starting to put their heads above the parapet and say maybe he’s not the Messiah after all.”

—A Labour Veteran

The core of the discontent revolves around McSweeney’s belief in countering the populist Reform UK party by leaning right on welfare and immigration. This strategy has led to clashes, particularly with Labour MPs concerned about alienating core voters.

A recent YouGov poll indicates that a significant number of voters who have moved away from Labour since July have switched to the Liberal Democrats, Greens, or other parties rather than Reform, potentially undermining McSweeney’s strategy.

Internal Divisions and Strategic Shifts

The government’s push for stricter welfare controls is a major point of contention. Many Labour MPs, especially those representing urban areas, fear this rightward shift will push away the party’s core supporters.

McSweeney’s supporters believe he has improved morale and helped Starmer manage Whitehall effectively. They emphasize his role in trade negotiations and his early recognition of the risks associated with winter fuel allowance cuts.

However, Pat McFadden, a Cabinet Office minister, has warned Starmer about focusing solely on Reform-leaning voters. The Cabinet Office is a department of the British Government, responsible for supporting the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.

The divergence in opinions mirrors a generational divide within the Labour party itself. Some MPs accept the need for firmer immigration policies, noting high net migration figures in recent years.

One strategist said McSweeney has become a “lightning rod for people to blame for everything they don’t like about this government.”