In an exclusive interview, one of Keir Starmer's most senior ministers has launched a striking critique of the Green Party, warning that their electoral promises are 'undeliverable' and risk leaving voters disappointed. Darren Jones, the Prime Minister's Chief Secretary, positioned Labour as the 'modern party of the future' in a direct appeal to win back progressive voters.
A Five-Party System and the Populist Challenge
Jones drew a direct parallel between the Greens and Nigel Farage's Reform UK, describing both as populist forces offering simplistic answers to the nation's complex problems. "They're a bit like the populist left version of the populist right," he stated, emphasising that this dynamic creates a 'very grave' decision for the country at the next election.
The minister's comments come amid concerning polling for Labour. A recent YouGov survey placed the party just four points ahead of the Greens, who have surged to 16% support – more than double the 6.7% share they achieved at the last general election. This reflects a broader challenge for Starmer's government, which is losing support to parties on both its progressive wing and the right.
Defending Labour's Green Agenda and Economic Choices
As Starmer returns from the Cop30 climate summit in Brazil, Jones sought to reassure voters that the government is not retreating from its core environmental policies. "I can reassure people that's not the case," he insisted, pointing to ongoing funding for renewables and home insulation. He acknowledged, however, that the global consensus on net zero has fractured, making it 'contested space' where Britain must continue to 'lean in'.
On the economy, Jones defended the potential breaking of manifesto commitments ahead of Rachel Reeves's budget later this month, where an income tax rise is anticipated. "You've got to be frank with the public about the trade-offs," he argued, stating that the government must take the right decisions for the country 'even if that makes you unpopular'.
Digital ID, Public Service Reform, and Leadership
In his role overseeing government delivery, Jones advocated for radical public service reform, admitting that 'previous attempts to incrementally improve the current system have not proven to be good enough'. He confirmed that AI would gradually replace some civil service jobs, reducing headcount over time.
He also addressed the controversial digital ID scheme, set to be introduced for right-to-work checks before the next election. Jones blamed 'a lot of disinformation online' for plummeting public support, vehemently denying it constitutes a surveillance system.
Looking ahead to May's local elections, which are viewed inside Number 10 as a moment of peril, Jones remained pragmatic: "Governing parties don't do well in midterm elections, that's just a fact." When questioned about his own leadership ambitions, he did not issue a denial, instead stating he was focused on his 'multiple big jobs' and 'not planning on going anywhere anytime soon'.
