Prescott and Brown Unite in Battle for Labour Party's Soul

In a surprise move, John Prescott has formed an alliance with Gordon Brown, combining their efforts to promote "traditional" Old Labour values and challenge the dominance of the New Labour project. Despite past differences, the two leaders have come together to push for industrial reorganisation and economic interventionism, as stated by Prescott. This development marks a significant power struggle within the Labour Party, with both men vying for control in the aftermath of Peter Mandelson's resignation.

Key Takeaways:

  • John Prescott and Gordon Brown have formed an alliance to promote Old Labour values, including industrial reorganisation and economic interventionism.
  • The alliance is seen as a response to the decline of the New Labour project and a challenge to Peter Mandelson's resignation.
  • Prescott and Brown have put aside past differences, with Prescott citing a deal with the Treasury to fund public transport using motoring charges.
  • The partnership is viewed as a "Prescott-Brown pincer movement" by the Tories, who see it as a fresh outbreak of civil war within the Labour Party.
  • Prescott has praised Brown as a "radical guy" and emphasized their shared goal of getting "away from rhetoric and back on to the substance".
  • The alliance is unprecedented and may have significant implications for the future of the Labour Party.

Statistics:

  • £ _[amount]_ raised from motoring charges will be siphoned off from the Treasury to fund public transport.
  • [No specific statistics mentioned in the text]
  • The partnership is seen as a challenge to the New Labour project, which has struggled since Peter Mandelson's resignation.

Sources:

  • The Independent