The Labour leader promises to transfer powers from Westminster and turn the slogan into a “solution”.
Image source, PA MediaSir Keir Starmer has promised a new “take back control” bill to transfer powers from Westminster to communities.
In his first speech of 2023, the Labour leader – a former Remain supporter – said he wanted to turn the Brexit campaign slogan “into a solution”.
He pledged to devolve new powers over employment support, transport, energy, housing, culture and childcare.
Sir Keir said the legislation would be “a centrepiece” of Labour’s plans if it wins the next general election.
Sir Keir was Labour’s shadow Brexit secretary under Jeremy Corbyn between 2016 and 2020, when he advocated for a second referendum.
Asked by reporters whether he now regretted supporting a fresh vote, Sir Keir said: “Even in those turbulent years, 2016 to 2019, I was always making the argument that there was always something very important sitting behind that leave vote.
“That phrase ‘take back control’ was really powerful, it was like a Heineken phrasing, got into people.
“And the more they ask themselves, do I have enough control, the more they answer that question, no.”