Labour leader Keir Starmer has criticized Nigel Farage, branding him “utterly spineless” for his failure to disapprove of a Reform UK councillor’s derogatory remarks about children in care being “downright evil.” The Prime Minister also condemned Farage for neglecting to address the issue promptly, calling the comments “utterly appalling.” During a session of PMQs, Labour MP Darren Paffey highlighted the offensive comments made by Reform UK’s Andy Osborn and sought assurance from Starmer that the Labour government would continue to support care leavers’ well-being and opportunities.
In response, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of supporting all children to reach their potential, especially care leavers, and criticized the opposition parties for voting against measures to help care leavers secure accommodation. Starmer urged Farage to condemn the offensive remarks, but the Reform UK leader diverted the conversation to discuss the closure of migrant hotels in response to public safety concerns. Farage’s avoidance of condemning the comments drew further criticism from Starmer and the Prime Minister.
The political tension escalated as Starmer highlighted Farage’s inaction in addressing controversial statements made by MP Sarah Pochin, further questioning the Reform UK leader’s leadership. Starmer emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing inherited challenges and closing all remaining hotels used for housing migrants, while also condemning the lack of condemnation from Farage regarding comments on children in care and racial remarks from within his party.
Following backlash over her comments, Ms. Pochin issued an apology, clarifying that her remarks were poorly phrased and not intended to offend anyone. Farage expressed discontent with the comments but defended Ms. Pochin, stating that her intentions were not racist. The ongoing political discourse reflects the scrutiny and accountability within the UK political landscape.