Starmer Takes On Farage, Signals Leadership Fight

Starmer challenges Farage's patriotism and embraces a 'fight for the soul' of Britain. He also takes aim at potential rivals like Andy Burnham, signaling his intent to reclaim national symbols and fight for the centre ground.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 30 . 10:38 PM

1 min read

There are 2 UK flags hanging. A person is standing on the stage wearing a cap, black shirt and... — There are 2 UK flags hanging. A person is standing on the stage wearing a cap, black shirt and jeans. He is holding a microphone. There are lights behind him and there is a board at the center top. There is a green light on the top.

Starmer Takes On Farage, Signals Leadership Fight

Labour leader Keir Starmer delivered a powerful speech at the party's conference, directly attacking Nigel Farage and Reform UK, and implicitly criticising potential leadership rivals. The speech, introduced by Hillsborough campaigner Margaret Aspinall, was praised as one of Starmer's best since taking the helm in 2020.

Starmer began by singling out Farage, questioning his patriotism and commitment to serving the country. He later embraced the prospect of a direct confrontation with the former UKIP leader, describing it as a 'fight for the soul' of Britain. Starmer has been intent on reclaiming national symbols like the Union Jack and St George's flag from hard-right factions.

Starmer also criticised 'snake-oil merchants' on both the right and left who, he argued, needed the country to decline to succeed. This was seen as a subtle jab at Andy Burnham, who has been considering challenging Starmer's position. Burnham's departure from the venue just before Starmer's speech added fuel to this interpretation. Starmer later criticised politicians who would 'crash the economy like Liz Truss' and 'walked away after Brexit', further raising eyebrows among observers.

Starmer's speech at the Labour conference was a clear attempt to assert his leadership and set out his stall for the upcoming political battles. By directly attacking Farage and implicitly criticising potential rivals, Starmer signalled his intent to fight for the centre ground and reclaim national symbols from the hard right. The speech was widely praised for its passion and clarity, and could mark a turning point in Starmer's leadership.