Natalie Elphicke's defection from the Conservative Party to join the Labour Party marks a significant blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership. In her resignation statement, Elphicke cited broken promises and the abandonment of key manifesto pledges under Sunak's leadership, accusing the Tories of incompetence and division.
The defection comes amid a challenging period for the Conservative Party, with bruising local election results and internal divisions. Elphicke's decision to cross the floor of the House of Commons underscores growing discontent within the party ranks.
Labour Leader Keir Starmer capitalized on the moment during the Prime Minister's Questions, questioning the viability of the "failed government" and challenging Sunak to call a general election. Sunak, in turn, accused Starmer of being out of touch with British values and defended the Conservatives' vision for the future.
Elphicke's defection follows a similar move by Conservative MP Dan Poulter, further highlighting tensions within the party over key issues such as healthcare and immigration policy.
While Labour celebrates Elphicke's decision as a vote of confidence in their policies, the Conservative Party expressed disappointment, particularly regarding Elphicke's stance on immigration issues affecting her constituency of Dover and Deal.
As Elphicke prepares to step down from her role, the political landscape in Dover and Deal remains uncertain, with Labour retaining its existing candidate and the Conservatives facing challenges in maintaining support amid growing dissatisfaction with the government's performance.
