Labour's Lucy Powell Delivers Scathing Critique of Reform UK Ahead of Manchester By-Election
Labour's Deputy Leader, Lucy Powell, has launched a fierce attack on Reform UK, branding them as "no friends of working people in Manchester or anywhere else." In a passionate statement ahead of Thursday's parliamentary by-election in Gorton & Denton, Powell accused Reform of promoting a politics of hate and grievance that threatens to divide communities.
A By-Election of National Significance
This by-election holds profound national importance, pitting Reform's divisive agenda against Labour's vision of common purpose and unity. Powell emphasised that the outcome will resonate far beyond Manchester, shaping the political landscape across the UK. She drew sharp comparisons between Reform UK and Thatcherism, labelling their platform as a "Thatcher tribute act" focused on tax breaks for the wealthy, renewed austerity measures, and policies that could push hundreds of thousands of children back into poverty.
Reform's controversial policies include scrapping the Equality Act, which provides crucial protections for pregnant women, disabled individuals, ethnic minorities, and LGBT people. In Parliament, Reform MPs have consistently voted against strengthening rights for workers and renters, further alienating them from the concerns of ordinary citizens.
Manchester's United Front Against Division
Powell highlighted Manchester's rich history as a vibrant, tolerant city proud of its diversity. As the birthplace of the trade union movement, the co-operative movement, and home to the suffragettes, Manchester has a legacy of solidarity that stands in stark contrast to Reform's politics of division. "My city and its residents have been galvanised against Reform’s politics of division, pitting neighbour against neighbour," Powell declared.
Exclusive data shared with the Mirror suggests Labour is well-positioned to win this crucial by-election, thanks to a strong local narrative of togetherness, opportunity, and hope. Mayor Andy Burnham, the local Labour council, and the national Labour government are delivering tangible benefits for Mancunians, including new social housing, improved bus services, free breakfast clubs, and millions in funding for area improvements. The scrapping of the two-child benefit cap has already lifted thousands of local children out of poverty.
Reform's Struggle and Controversial Alliances
Reform UK is reportedly struggling to gain traction, leading them to amplify Green Party messaging in an attempt to split and suppress the Labour vote. Powell accused the Greens of peddling misinformation that ultimately aids Reform's agenda. She also criticised Reform's candidate selection, noting that far-right figure Tommy Robinson has endorsed their candidate. Robinson has made inflammatory statements, including claims that non-white people cannot be English, that childless women should pay higher taxes, and that too many women attend university.
Powell, who has been canvassing door-to-door nearly every day during the campaign, reported that while residents want Labour to improve and clarify its messaging, there is overwhelming support for rejecting Reform's divisive politics. "Mancunians are coming together to send a clear message to Reform: no thanks, off you trot back to London," she said.
A Call for Unity and Hope
The Gorton and Denton by-election represents an opportunity to draw a Labour-red line in the sand, deliver a setback to Nigel Farage, and unequivocally reject Reform's politics of hate and division. Powell urged voters to choose unity, hope, and Labour, emphasising that now is the time to make that stance clear.
Additional Political Developments
In other news, Powell celebrated the appointment of Antonia Romeo as the first female Cabinet Secretary, breaking another glass ceiling in Westminster. While acknowledging progress, she stressed the need for greater diversity in decision-making to avoid group-think and ensure political decisions reflect a range of voices and experiences.
Looking ahead, Powell expressed excitement for Manchester hosting the Brit Awards for the first time outside London, promising a city-wide celebration of music and art. She also shared her enthusiasm for the Winter Olympics, particularly the curling events, as Team GB continues to compete for medals.
