FIREFIGHTERS have joined a chorus of condemnation over Labour’s welcoming of anti-union Tory MP Natalie Elphicke into the party’s ranks.

The MP for Dover defected last week and was warmly welcomed by Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

In a letter to Sir Keir, FBU general secretary Matt Wrack said: “Elphicke has spoken in favour of new anti-unions laws, branded ‘one of the most vicious attacks on workers’ rights in living memory.’

“During a debate in Parliament, Elphicke blamed striking firefighters for the deaths of three people during a past national firefighters’ strike.” 

The letter describes her views as “a disgraceful attack on firefighters” and went on: “Attacking trade union members in this way to justify support for draconian anti-worker laws ought to be incompatible with membership of the Parliamentary Labour Party.”

Members of Labour’s national executive committee are among critics calling for the Labour whip to be withdrawn from Ms Elphicke.