What's Happening?
Liz McInnes, a former Labour MP for Heywood and Middleton, has characterized her time in Westminster as 'exhausting,' particularly due to the political paralysis following the Brexit referendum. McInnes, who served as a shadow foreign minister under Jeremy
Corbyn, lost her parliamentary seat in the 2019 general election. She expressed that the period was dominated by Brexit, which led to a sense of stagnation in Parliament. After her tenure as an MP, McInnes was elected as a councillor on Rossendale Borough Council in 2024, where she now serves as the lead member for Communities, Housing, Health, and Wellbeing. She finds her current role more fulfilling due to the immediacy and independence it offers, allowing her to engage directly with constituents and address issues promptly.
Why It's Important?
McInnes's reflections highlight the broader challenges faced by UK politicians during the Brexit era, a period marked by significant political upheaval and division. Her comments underscore the difficulties in navigating a political landscape that was often gridlocked, impacting legislative progress and public trust in government. The shift from national to local politics for McInnes also illustrates a trend where former national politicians find renewed purpose and effectiveness in local governance, where they can see the direct impact of their work. This transition may influence how political careers are perceived and pursued in the future, potentially encouraging more politicians to engage at the local level.
What's Next?
As McInnes continues her work on the Rossendale Borough Council, her focus on community engagement and local governance may serve as a model for other former national politicians seeking impactful roles post-Westminster. Her experience could inspire discussions on the value of local political roles and their potential to drive meaningful change. Additionally, her insights into the challenges of Brexit-era politics may contribute to ongoing debates about the future of UK governance and the need for reforms to address political paralysis.
