Labour’s Strategic Moves and Challenges Ahead
Sir Keir Starmer has made it clear that the Labour Party is prepared to take on Reform UK, which he described as an “enemy” of the country. This declaration comes ahead of the Labour Party conference this weekend, where the party aims to present a strong and unified front against the rising influence of Reform.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has also announced plans for an “ambitious” new youth migration scheme with the EU. According to her, this initiative could help reduce the need for tax increases in the upcoming budget. The scheme would allow young people from the UK to work, study, and live on the continent, and vice versa, for an extended period of time.
A Focus on Patriotism and National Renewal
Speaking at the Labour conference in Liverpool, Sir Keir emphasized the importance of patriotism and national renewal. He told the Guardian that the gathering was a “real opportunity for us to make our argument about patriotic national renewal, to own patriotism, to define it for what it is.”
The latest polling data suggests that Nigel Farage is the most likely candidate to become the next prime minister, with Reform UK on track to win the most parliamentary seats if an election were held. This has prompted Sir Keir to rally his party against what he sees as a significant threat to the country.
A Call to Action Against Reform UK
In a message aimed at uniting a divided Labour Party, Sir Keir warned that history will not forgive them if they do not use every ounce of their energy to fight Reform. He stated, “There is an enemy. There is a project which is detrimental to our country. It actually goes against the grain of our history.”
He also urged the party not to engage in introspection, especially as speculation grows about Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, possibly challenging his leadership. “We do not have time for introspection. We have to unite and fight,” Sir Keir said.
Internal Struggles and Leadership Concerns
Labour chairwoman Anna Turley acknowledged the challenges the party has faced recently, including calls for Mr. Burnham to challenge the PM. However, she insisted that many more MPs are frustrated that colleagues are already trying to topple Sir Keir.
Economic Plans and Migration Concerns
Chancellor Rachel Reeves highlighted the need for the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) to include the improved EU trading relationship brokered by Labour when making economic forecasts. She also spoke about the Government’s desire for an ambitious youth experience scheme, which she believes would be “good for the economy, good for growth and good for business.”
However, the Times suggested that this scheme could lead to a new migration headache for the Government, as 50,000 Europeans a year could be eligible to live in the UK as a result of it.
Calls to End the Two-Child Benefit Cap
Backbench MPs and unions have renewed calls to end the two-child benefit cap. Several MPs from Liverpool, the host city of the conference, wrote to the Prime Minister, stating that the cap is “one of the most significant drivers of child poverty in Britain today.”
Debate over the future of the cap is among several areas of benefits policy where ministers could face challenges from Labour members in Liverpool.
Lucy Powell, the former Commons leader and front runner in the race to become the next Labour deputy leader, has previously called for the cap to be removed.
Benefits Bill and Digital ID System
Labour MPs forced a U-turn on Sir Keir’s plans to cut the benefits bill earlier this year. However, Darren Jones, the PM’s chief secretary and a senior Cabinet Office minister, hinted that ministers are willing to return to the battle, stating that the benefits bill is “unsustainable in the long run.”
Sir Keir’s plans for a new digital ID system, unveiled at a conference of centre-left leaders in London on Friday, will also likely face scrutiny at the conference.
New Towns and Future Plans
Senior Labour figures are expected to set out the details of a fresh tranche of “New Towns” at the event. This initiative is part of the party’s broader strategy to address housing and economic development across the country.
