Keir Starmer is in the mood to fight
Spectator (UK)SEP 2024
UK: Starmer Gives Speech at Labour Party Conference
Above: Britain's Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer delivers his keynote speech during the Labour Party Conference 2024 at ACC Liverpool on September 24, 2024 in Liverpool, England. Image copyright: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Starmer's speech proved largely successful in appropriately toeing the line between optimism and realism in a manner the party lacked during the first months of government. While there is much to do to answer the many demands of the millions stricken by over a decade of Tory failure, Starmer has now clearly laid out his expectations in front of his party and the nation. Now, it is up to the prime minister to make good on his promises and take control of his premiership.
Left narrative
A speech lacking in substantive detail while saturated in Tory-lite status quo caution, Starmer's speech was any optimistic progressive's worst nightmare. Despite promises of change, it is becoming more abundantly clear by the day that Starmer's Labour isn't brave enough to provide the meaningful reform the UK so desperately needs.
Right narrative
While many had expected Labour's first party conference with a sitting prime minister in 15 years to be a celebration, reality has quickly set in for Starmer's new government, which continues to realize that politics isn't so easy when you're no longer in opposition. Unlike the Blair years, Labour's policies and mood are devoid of enthusiasm and are already tiring the vast majority of the voting population. Things are shaping out to be a long and tiring five years for Starmer.