Chuka Umunna: Labour must 'support new leader'

Chuka Umunna said that 'solidarity is key'. Credit: PA

Labour's Chuka Umunna has called for 'solidarity' within the party and urged members to unite around a new leader in an apparent offer of reconciliation from the party's modernising wing to leadership favourite Jeremy Corbyn.

Shadow business secretary Umunna, who quit the leadership race in its early stages, insisted that the party must accept the result of the contest.

Speaking at think-tank Policy Network's conference in Amsterdam last night, he said: "Solidarity is key which is why we must accept the result of our contest when it comes and support our new leader in developing an agenda that can return Labour to office."

The Shadow business secretary, often seen as a Blairite, said MPs and others cannot dismiss those who criticise New Labour.

Over half a million people have joined Labour as a member or supporter to vote in the leadership contest. Credit: PA

He said the party should accept its new members and supporters, including the young who may be more supportive of left-winger Corbyn.

Referring to a surge in party membership and support in the run up to the leadership contest, the Streatham MP said:

The leadership contest is entering its final stages with the winner of the race to succeed Ed Miliband due to be announced on September 12.