Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to deliver a major speech this week, pledging a progressive fightback against the 'decline and division' fuelled by the far right. The address comes ahead of Labour's conference amid internal party pressure for a stronger moral rebuttal of Reform UK and rising racism.
Starmer is expected to say the UK is 'at a crossroads' and that the government will lead the fight against division. The speech will also aim to build an international coalition of centre-left leaders to tackle right-wing populism and form a united front on issues such as Ukraine and Gaza.
A Downing Street source said it would be a 'fatal flaw' for social democrats to ignore concerns about immigration, adding that people will 'look elsewhere' if answers are not provided. The speech signals a shift in strategy towards Nigel Farage, with a recognition that Labour needs to 'go further' in its response.
Labour MPs have criticised Reform's proposals, including plans to scrap indefinite leave to remain and replace it with a rolling visa system. Sarah Owen called the policy 'morally abhorrent and economic madness', while Charlotte Nichols described it as 'obscene'.
Starmer's spokesperson said the choice is between 'national renewal' and the 'path of division and decline' offered by Reform. The prime minister has also been taking more soundings from MPs after a fortnight of turmoil, including scandals involving senior figures.
