Ed Miliband Calls for Keir Starmer to Seize a 'Moment of Change' for Labour
Ed Miliband has publicly urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to lead a significant "moment of change" for the Labour government, emphasizing the need to end internal conflicts and demonstrate clearer purpose. This comes after a day of political turmoil within the party, including calls for Starmer's resignation from Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar.
Labour MPs Rally Behind Starmer After Parliamentary Speech
Following a speech in parliament, Labour MPs have rallied around Keir Starmer, with many expressing renewed confidence in his leadership. Miliband described Starmer as appearing "liberated" in the aftermath of his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney's departure, suggesting this could allow the prime minister's true character to shine through to the public.
In an interview with BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Miliband stated, "I'm one of his closest friends in politics, I have had a frustration, that the private Keir we know hasn't been sufficiently on display to the public." He highlighted the importance of moving past factionalism, adding, "Yes of course … factionalism, sectarianism never serves the Labour party. I think we need the widest possible set of talents across our party."
Pressure to Address Cost-of-Living Crisis and Internal Strife
Miliband hinted that the government must do more to show support for ordinary working people struggling with the high cost of living. He pointed out that policy mistakes, such as issues with winter fuel payments, have overshadowed the government's positive actions. The soft-left Tribune group, led by some of Miliband's allies, has called for a cabinet reshuffle and an end to factionalism following the departure of key No 10 figures.
Speaking to Sky News, Miliband elaborated, "This has got to be a moment of change for the government, a moment of change where we show much greater clarity of purpose, consistency of purpose. And my experience in politics is what gets you through very difficult days is mission and values." He stressed that Labour's role in government is to shift focus from serving the wealthy and powerful to addressing broader societal needs.
Miliband Rules Out Leadership Bid and Comments on Sarwar
When questioned about his own political ambitions, Miliband firmly denied any intention to run for the leadership again, stating he had been "inoculated against that" during his time as opposition leader. He also addressed Anas Sarwar's call for Starmer's resignation, saying he still considers Sarwar a friend but believes he made "a wrong judgment yesterday. I don't agree with him."
Miliband praised Starmer's recent speech to the Labour parliamentary meeting, noting it helped avert a potential leadership challenge. "I think you saw a will among the people there to get behind Keir, give him the time and space to reset the government. And by the way, it was a different Keir last night, a more liberated Keir. It was the Keir I know, decency, integrity and he knew what he was fighting for with great clarity," he said.
The energy secretary concluded by emphasizing the collective responsibility within Labour to tackle ongoing challenges, including the cost-of-living crisis, and to reconnect with the public through bold and consistent policies.
