Billy Bragg says he still backs Jeremy Corbyn, despite calling the Labour leader a “20th century man” and warning against “tribalist” moves
Singer and Labour activist Billy Bragg has denied withdrawing his support for Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, despite warning the party risks becoming “tribalist” under Corbyn.
Speaking at the Edinburgh Book Festival, Bragg, who has repeatedly lent Corbyn his backing, said Labour was failing to articulate new ideas, such as federalism for English regions.
According to The Times, Bragg slammed the incumbent leader, stating: “I worry about Jeremy that he’s a kind of 20th century Labour man."
He added: “We need to be reaching out to people. We need to be working with everybody we can because you can see what happens to a political party that becomes tribalist. We can’t afford to go down that route if we are to retain the ability to represent ordinary working people.”
And the singer also blasted Corbyn, saying that he was unable to reach parts of the electorate necessary to build an effective political force.
However, the singer – who advocated voting Lib Dem in 2010 – has since denied that he was attacking Corbyn, stating that he was focused on campaigning for increased devolution in England, and accused The Times, which first reported the remarks, of misrepresenting him.
Can everyone please stay calm about the Times twisting my words to attack Corbyn. I remain a JC supporter. Don't let Murdoch sow discord.
— Billy Bragg (@billybragg) August 16, 2016
It comes as Corbyn unveils his transport agenda for Labour, promising to nationalise railways and extend greater local authority control over bus services.