At the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered a speech aimed at confronting the rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party and uniting his own party amidst growing internal and external challenges. Starmer sharply criticised Farage, accusing him of promoting a divisive and morally questionable agenda that undermines British unity. He described Farage as a "snake oil merchant" who "doesn't even like Britain," framing his own vision as one of inclusive patriotic renewal that rejects the grievance-driven politics embraced by Reform UK. Starmer appealed directly to working-class voters to reject narratives of decline and division, emphasising Labour as the genuine patriotic party prepared to defend the Union flag and national pride.

Starmer’s remarks came against a backdrop of slipping approval ratings and economic difficulties that have tested public and party confidence since Labour’s landslide victory in 2024. Inflation remains high and economic growth weak, limiting the government's fiscal room and causing friction within Labour ranks over spending and policy priorities. The prime minister faces internal scrutiny as figures like Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham gain prominence, advocating for bolder social measures and critiquing the party leadership’s cautious tone. While Burnham’s calls for greater openness and progressive policies resonated in the conference audience, Starmer dismissed leadership challenge speculation as part of normal political dissent, urging his party to stop “navel-gazing” and focus on the real challenge posed by Reform UK’s rise.

A key policy signal at the conference was the indication that Labour plans to lift the controversial two-child benefit cap, a welfare restriction imposed by the previous Conservative government. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves is reported to be preparing for its removal or significant modification in the forthcoming November budget, a move that could reduce child poverty by hundreds of thousands but also costs billions of pounds. This shift reflects Labour’s balancing act between fulfilling campaign promises to improve living standards and managing fiscal responsibility amid economic constraints. Reeves also unveiled plans to combat long-term youth unemployment by guaranteeing paid work for young Universal Credit recipients, another effort to address social issues while maintaining commitments to fiscal discipline.

Starmer’s speech strategically positioned Labour as a patriotic party that values secure borders and industry while condemning racism and violent extremism—a clear contrast to the anti-immigration rhetoric identified with Farage, which Starmer claims sows division and moral decay. Supporters within Labour viewed the speech as a necessary rallying call to counter the populist right’s appeal, while critics argued Starmer must now translate words into tangible economic and social policies to restore confidence. His focus on national symbols and unity seeks to reclaim working-class support lost to Reform UK and reassure voters unsettled by recent political turmoil, including high-profile resignations and ambassadorial dismissals.

Despite the determined tone, Labour’s internal divisions remain evident. Andy Burnham’s criticisms highlighted a yearning within parts of the party for more radical change, including proposals for higher taxes on the wealthy and nationalisation, challenging Starmer’s centrist fiscal approach. With local elections imminent and the next general election not due until 2029, Labour’s leadership must navigate a path that reconciles its diverse factions, addresses the country’s economic challenges, and counters the rising populism represented by Reform UK.

In summary, Starmer’s conference speech marked a strategic effort to reassert Labour’s identity against both external political threats and internal discord. His critique of Farage and embrace of patriotic themes aim to draw a clear battle line for the next general election, while policy shifts on welfare and employment signal an attempt to address pressing social issues. However, ongoing economic uncertainty and leadership tensions underscore the challenges ahead as Labour seeks to consolidate its position.

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Source: Noah Wire Services