What's happened
Labour leader Keir Starmer has gained significant momentum with the defection of two Conservative MPs, including Natalie Elphicke, to the Labour Party. This move comes as Starmer launched Labour's six 'first steps' commitments, signaling readiness for governance. The defections and endorsements from various sectors have bolstered Labour's position ahead of the anticipated general election. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faces criticism over his government's handling of key issues, including immigration and law and order, as highlighted during recent PMQs.
What's behind the headline?
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Keir Starmer's campaign event in Thurrock was a well-orchestrated display of Labour's readiness to govern, featuring endorsements from notable figures like the CEO of Boots and a former senior Met police officer. Jessica Elgot of The Guardian noted the event's stark contrast to the Conservative Party's recent controversies. The Independent highlighted the criticism faced by Rishi Sunak during PMQs, with Starmer mocking the PM's focus on cultural issues over substantive policy matters. Politico's Andrew McDonald emphasized the strategic importance of the defections and Labour's focus on law and order during PMQs.
How we got here
The recent defections of Conservative MPs Natalie Elphicke and Dan Poulter to Labour come amid growing dissatisfaction with the Conservative government's handling of key issues such as immigration and the NHS. Elphicke, known for her right-wing views, has been critical of the government's approach to migrant crossings. Labour, under Keir Starmer's leadership, has been gaining traction in the polls, buoyed by local election successes and strategic endorsements. The political landscape is shifting as both parties prepare for the upcoming general election, with Labour positioning itself as a viable alternative to the current government.
Go deeper
- What are the key points of Labour's six 'first steps' commitments?
- How have the defections impacted the Conservative Party?
- What endorsements did Labour receive during the Thurrock event?
Common question
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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The Labour Party is a centre-left political party in the United Kingdom that has been described as an alliance of social democrats, democratic socialists and trade unionists.
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Natalie Cecilia Elphicke OBE is an English Conservative Party politician and finance lawyer. At the 2019 general election, she was elected as the Member of Parliament for Dover, succeeding her husband Charlie.
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Rishi Sunak is a British politician who has served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Leader of the Conservative Party since 2022.
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The Conservative Party, officially the Conservative and Unionist Party, and also known colloquially as the Tories, Tory Party, or simply the Conservatives, is a political party in the United Kingdom.