Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
LABOUR’S ROAD TO REMAIN:
JEREMY Corbyn has finally called for a second referendum as he warned of the dire consequences of a Tory no-deal that could crush our NHS and strip workers of their rights.
The Labour leader yesterday urged the next PM, likely to be Boris Johnson, to put the vote on Europe back to the people – and vowed to back Remain.
His announcement was welcomed by anti-brexit colleagues, but it sparked anger among Leavers in the party who warned it could cost votes in northern heartlands.
Writing in the Mirror today, Mr Corbyn says: “Whoever becomes the new Prime Minister, they should have the confidence to put their deal, or no-deal, back to the people in a public vote.
“In those circumstances, Labour would campaign f or Remain . Both Tor y leadership candidates are threatening a no-deal Brexit and a sweetheart deal with Donald Trump that runs down industry, opens up our NHS to more privatisation, and shreds standards on vital things like food safety and workers’ rights.”
The Mirror last month revealed exclusively Mr Corbyn would back a second referendum. He was lobbied by allies John Mc D o n n e l l a n d D i a n e Abbott to firm up the policy. And after weeks of internal pressure, he yesterday confirmed the move.
But he kept silent on what Labour’s Brexit position would be at the next election. Mr Corbyn said: “We have a democratic process, we will decide very quickly at the start of that campaign what our position will be.” Pressed on whether Labour was a party of Leave or Remain, he replied: