Broadcaster Iain Dale launched a blistering attack on Labour MPs during Wednesday's edition of BBC Newsnight, describing their standing ovation for Sir Keir Starmer at Prime Minister's Questions as 'sick-making'. Dale, a veteran political commentator, did not hold back as he reacted to footage of Rachel Reeves and other Labour politicians applauding Starmer in the House of Commons.
Dale's On-Air Criticism
'How sick-making was that,' Dale said on the programme. 'The very people that got rid of him had the cheek to stand up and clap him.' His comments came after Starmer delivered his final address at PMQs before stepping down as Prime Minister, following his resignation announcement in June.
Dale's outburst resonated strongly with viewers, who took to social media to echo his sentiments. One user wrote: 'I'm with @IainDale, a couple of weeks ago the knives were out!' Another added: 'I hope Labour don't regret their back-stabbing ousting of Keir Starmer.' A third remarked: 'It's the standing ovation given by the people that betrayed him that got me. It's been a disgraceful episode all round with very few from the PLP coming out of it looking good. Starmer goes with honour and dignity intact.'
Choreographed Handover Claims
Some viewers suggested the leadership transition was orchestrated. 'The real illusion is the suggestion that this all happened naturally,' noted a fourth commentator. 'To many, it looks like a leadership handover that has been quietly choreographed for years.'
Starmer, who confirmed his resignation as Prime Minister in June, is expected to hand over power to Makerfield MP Andy Burnham in the coming days. During his final PMQs speech, Starmer said: 'To my successor, and to each of you, I will give my full support. To all colleagues across the House, can I wish you good health and happiness. To all those in the gallery, whose lives have been changed or improved by this Labour government, and all across the country who struggle to be seen or heard, you are the reason I came into politics. To my wife and children, I love you. Goodbye.'
Viewer Reactions and Political Fallout
The clip of Dale's comments was shared widely on social media, including by the BBC Newsnight account, which posted: 'How sick-making was that. The very people that got rid of him had the cheek to stand up and clap him. Iain Dale on MPs reaction to Keir Starmer's farewell message in PMQs.'
Dale's criticism highlights the deep divisions within the Labour Party following Starmer's departure. Many observers noted the irony of MPs who had reportedly pushed for Starmer's resignation now publicly honouring him. The broadcaster's remarks have sparked further debate about the internal dynamics of the party and the legitimacy of the leadership change.
