SIR Keir Starmer has refuted claims that his recent remarks endangered Reform UK activists, following Nigel Farage’s accusation that the Labour leader’s conference speech “incited violence.” During a speech on Tuesday, Starmer lambasted Farage as an “enemy” of Britain and criticized his party’s policies as divisive, reports BritPanorama.
In response to Farage’s assertions, Starmer maintained that his comments were aimed at highlighting a broader political divide rather than promoting hostility. He stated, “What I was doing in the speech was being absolutely crystal clear that at the next election there is a different battle to be had, a different divide in our politics.”
Farage countered Starmer’s statements, asserting that the PM’s accusations of racism were dangerous and could lead to violence against Reform UK members. He expressed that Starmer should feel “ashamed” for inciting sentiments among the radical Left, which he claims could escalate tensions further.
Starmer defended his position in an interview with Times Radio, stating, “No, it’s not. I am proud to serve the whole of our country, our beautiful, tolerant, diverse country and bring the whole country together.” He emphasized the importance of a narrative that focuses on national renewal, contrasting it with what he described as the “toxic division” posed by Farage’s party.
In the wake of growing tensions, Starmer reaffirmed his commitment to leading the Labour Party, highlighting that he took them to victory in the last election. He stressed the need for time to address the challenges facing the country after years of turmoil, adding, “I am not saying wait five years. We are already changing the country.”
Meanwhile, polling data indicates significant support for Reform UK, suggesting they could secure 373 seats if an election were held imminently. This potential outcome, larger than Boris Johnson’s 2019 victory, underlines the shifting political landscape as Starmer prepares to mount a vigorous campaign against Farage ahead of next year’s elections.
Starmer has vowed to fight “with every breath I have” against Farage, presenting himself as a patriot who embodies the resilience of British culture. This ongoing clash has positioned the rivalry between Labour and Reform UK at the forefront of British political discussion, with Starmer framing the upcoming election as a defining moment for the future of the nation. “Britain stands at a fork in the road. We can choose decency or we can choose division,” he declared to party delegates.
