Labour MPs Champion Defence Minister Al Carns as 'Reform Slayer' and Future Leader
Defence Minister and former Royal Marine Al Carns was hailed on Saturday as Labour's new 'Reform slayer' and the prime candidate to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as party leader. According to reports from The Mail on Sunday, the ex-Special Forces colonel has emerged as the preferred choice among many newly elected Labour MPs, who view him as the most capable figure to challenge Nigel Farage effectively.
MPs Laud Carns as the Ideal Counter to Farage
One Labour MP stated on Saturday: 'Al Carns is clearly our Reform slayer – he's the one who'll take the fight to Farage at the Commons Despatch Box. I just don't think candidates like Angela Rayner and Wes Streeting can do that.' This surge in support, particularly from MPs elected in 2024 like Carns himself, follows his combative media performances last week, which have even led former military colleagues to privately nickname him 'Rambo'.
Assertive Media Appearances Fuel Leadership Speculation
During an interview on BBC2's Newsnight, Carns, 46, who was awarded the Military Cross for his service in Afghanistan, demonstrated his no-nonsense approach. When asked about a hypothetical phone theft scenario similar to that involving ex-Number 10 aide Morgan McSweeney, he declared: 'I'd like to see the person who's going to steal it because I'm going to chase them down the street and get it back.' However, he quickly shifted focus to more pressing global issues, insisting he 'wasn't interested' in discussing trivial matters. He emphasised: 'I'm interested in the crisis in the Middle East involving hundreds of either British citizens or ex-pats, and a war in Ukraine that's caused a million casualties – more casualties than America took in the entire Second World War.'
He dismissed further questions on the topic, labelling such inquiries as 'gutter politics' and reiterating his commitment to addressing ongoing conflicts. His office has defended these statements, highlighting his dedication to serious policymaking over sensationalism.
Promotional Videos and Parliamentary Expenses Scrutiny
In addition to his media presence, Carns has been featured in a series of promotional videos, including one where he competes in pull-ups with a firefighter at a fire station in his Birmingham Selly Oak constituency. These videos, part of a broader campaign involving local organisations and public services, cost £3,000 in parliamentary expenses to produce. His office has asserted that all productions were made 'in full compliance' with parliamentary rules, and Carns himself has stated he would 'never apologise' for advocating for public services.
Mixed Reactions from Colleagues and Political Foes
Following his television interviews, an ex-Royal Marine revealed to The Mail on Sunday that some of Carns's former commando colleagues have dubbed him 'Rambo Carns', a reference to the fictional US special forces hero portrayed by Sylvester Stallone. The ex-marine commented: 'I think he was trying too hard to impress when he doesn't need to.' Despite this, Carns has garnered admiration from across the political spectrum. Earlier this year, a Tory MP remarked: 'He's one of the most capable individuals on the Labour benches and would be an absolute nightmare to face.'
Conversely, many other Labour MPs privately express scepticism, deeming it 'ridiculous' that someone with less than two years of experience at Westminster could ascend to the role of Prime Minister. They argue that such a rapid rise would undermine the party's stability and governance credentials.
Allies Downplay Leadership Ambitions
On Saturday, allies of Mr Carns moved to quell speculation about his leadership aspirations. They insisted that he is fully focused on his duties as Veterans Minister, adding that he has 'no campaign, no ambition and no team' for a leadership bid. This downplaying of ambitions suggests a strategic approach, possibly aimed at avoiding premature political manoeuvring while he consolidates his position within the party.
The ongoing debate highlights the internal dynamics within Labour as it navigates post-election challenges and prepares for future electoral battles against rivals like Nigel Farage's Reform party.
