UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak criticized Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer for being "unprincipled" following the defection of former Conservative MP Natalie Elphicke to the Labour Party. Sunak expressed concerns about Starmer's integrity, highlighting his shift from supporting Jeremy Corbyn to accepting Elphicke into Labour. Natalie Elphicke, who previously served as the Dover MP, has been controversial due to her anti-strike stance and allegations that she attempted to interfere in her then-husband Charlie Elphicke’s sex offences trial through lobbying a minister in 2020. These actions have led to calls for investigations from both Conservative and Labour members.
Labour's acceptance of Elphicke has also sparked unease within the party and criticism from trade unions, particularly due to her support for the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act. The Act is seen as limiting the effectiveness of industrial action in critical services, which has been a point of contention among Labour's traditional trade union supporters.
The Labour Party has defended their decision to welcome Elphicke, stating she rejects the characterisation of her meeting with the then-justice secretary and denies the allegations. However, prominent figures within Labour, including MP Jess Phillips and TUC president Matt Wrack, have openly criticized her joining the party and her past actions. These ongoing controversies emphasize the complex dynamics and challenges within UK political parties regarding membership acceptance and alignment with party values.