Starmer: Opponents taking 'extreme' positions

Sir Keir claimed Labour was offering a flexible approach which prioritised jobs and the economy.

He set out Labour’s Brexit plan earlier this week but his party’s approach has been criticised for being unclear over immigration and future membership of the European single market.

Speaking during an election campaign visit in Morley, Sir Keir said: “We have not been extreme, that’s for sure.

“The Prime Minister has said ‘I want all options off the table before I start the negotiations.

“That is a rigid position and it means she hasn’t really got very much wriggle-room, she hasn’t got flexibility in the negotiations.”

Labour has wrestled with Brexit since the referendum last year with the vast majority of MPs supporting remaining in the EU but many also representing constituenceis which voted to leave.

Sir Keir said: “I think it is really important that we all focus on what is in the best interests of the country, the best interests of Britain, and taking an extreme position on the one hand of out, out, out of anything that has got European in the title or on the other hand with the LibDems saying change nothing, rub out yesterday, that is not the way to achieve the best outcome for the country.

“The best way to achieve the best outcome for the country is to be smart and to be flexible and thet means you keep options on the table and you negotiate from a position of strength.”

Sir Keir was visiting Brandon Medical, a specialist manufacturer of hospital lighting in Morley which employs more than 50 people and exports products around the world.