The Guardian view on benefit cuts: these harmful changes must be fought | Editorial
GuardianMAR 9
UK: Starmer Challenges OBR Analysis, Defends Economic Plans at Liaison Committee
Above: Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at the door to 10 Downing Street, in central London, on April 4, 2025. Image copyright: BENJAMIN CREMEL/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
Starmer's government is determined to lead the U.K. into a new era with policies that prioritize working people and economic growth. Reforming outdated systems, supporting British industries, protecting the NHS, and ensuring a sustainable future, it’s clear the government's focus is on building resilience and securing a better future. Stability, certainty, and growth remains the goal within today's geopolitical headwinds.
Left narrative
Starmer's Labour hides cruelty behind calm. While claiming pragmatism, it appeases Trump, slashes support for disabled people, and clings to failed Tory economic policy. Lacking courage to tax the wealthy or stand up to the U.S., this government offers no real vision — just managed decline, austerity dressed as stability, and silence in the face of rising inequality and injustice.
Right narrative
Starmer vowed integrity but governs through deceit. He praised the OBR, then slammed it for rejecting his welfare spin. Promised no tax hikes, then raised them. Backed WASPI women, farmers, and students, then betrayed each. Now he's handing over the Chagos Islands, caving to the global courts. Starmer and his circle of left-wing metropolitan elites are slowly but surely destroying the U.K. from the inside out.