PM warns of Reform threat
Sir Keir Starmer has opened Labour’s annual conference with a call for unity, urging members to rally against Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, which he labelled the most dangerous opposition the country has faced in decades.
Speaking in Liverpool, the prime minister described the coming contest as “the fight of our lives”, warning that internal divisions could pave the way for Reform’s rise. “We have to beat Reform,” he told the BBC, adding: “Now is not the time for introspection or navel-gazing.”
Clash over immigration
In his strongest attack yet, Starmer branded Reform’s proposal to scrap indefinite leave to remain and force people to reapply for visas every five years “racist” and “immoral”. He said the policy would target people living legally in the UK who are vital to the economy and communities.
“They want to tear the country apart,” Starmer said, vowing to confront Farage directly.
Leadership jitters
The conference begins against a backdrop of speculation about Starmer’s leadership, with Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham attracting attention on the party fringe. A poll by More in Common predicted a landslide victory for Reform, projecting Farage as prime minister with 373 MPs and Labour slumping to just 90.
Starmer said he would be judged on his ability to raise living standards, rebuild the NHS and strengthen security. On tax, he insisted Labour’s manifesto pledge not to raise income tax, VAT or national insurance still stood.
Housing pledge
Meanwhile, housing secretary Steve Reed announced three sites for new towns at Tempsford in Bedfordshire, Leeds South Bank, and Crews Hill in north London. The projects form part of Labour’s plan for 12 new conurbations, though funding questions remain over costs that could reach £48bn.
