Diane Abbott Confirms Advising Jeremy Corbyn Against New Party Launch

Diane Abbott has publicly stated that she advised her longtime friend and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn against launching a new political party, citing the difficulties new parties face under the UK's first-past-the-post electoral system. Despite her reservations, Abbott understands why Corbyn and independent MP Zarah Sultana proceeded with the creation of the party, which remains unnamed but is expected to challenge Labour, particularly in urban areas. Abbott described Sultana as energetic and a good partner for Corbyn, and predicted that the new party could perform better than many expect due to widespread dissatisfaction with recent Labour policies. Abbott herself has been suspended from the Labour Party twice over controversial comments on racism, yet she indicated she would not join Corbyn’s new venture. While acknowledging the challenging political landscape, Abbott highlighted the complexity of the current state of British politics, noting discontent with cuts in social benefits under the Labour government. Other Corbyn allies, such as John McDonnell, have ruled out joining the new party, emphasizing their continued commitment to Labour.