In a compelling intervention, former special adviser, broadcaster, and peer Ayesha Hazarika has issued a stark warning to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, urging him to craft and communicate a compelling narrative of how the Labour Party is actively fixing Britain. This call comes after a tumultuous week that saw Starmer narrowly avoid a leadership challenge, largely due to a heartfelt apology to the Parliamentary Labour Party regarding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.
A Critical Moment for Labour's Leadership
Starmer's survival hinged on a make-or-break meeting with backbenchers, where he expressed genuine remorse, apologising to Epstein's victims, MPs, and their families. Hazarika emphasises that this move was crucial in securing vital support, but it is merely the first step. The Prime Minister now faces the imperative task of transforming his approach to governance and party management.
Embracing Team Politics Over Internal Conflict
Hazarika stresses that politics, particularly within Labour, is a team sport. She advises Starmer to cease hostilities with key figures like Andy Burnham, Anas Sarwar, Wes Streeting, Lisa Nandy, and Lucy Powell, noting that they are allies, not adversaries. While differences of opinion are inevitable, every Labour member shares the common goal of preventing a Nigel Farage victory. The party boasts genuinely brilliant, clever, and articulate individuals across the movement whose talents must be harnessed.
Inclusion is paramount, as bored and excluded politicians can become destabilising forces. Broadening the tent and utilising this diverse talent pool will strengthen Labour's position. Hazarika also calls for an end to advisers briefing against colleagues in the press, advocating instead for face-to-face discussions to resolve conflicts, which fosters greater respect even amidst disagreement.
Improving Decision-Making Through Engagement
To enhance policymaking, Hazarika recommends earlier and more thorough engagement with MPs, peers, and stakeholders. Stress-testing ideas proactively, rather than retracting decisions later, is essential. All policies, from winter fuel allowances to major appointments, must pass a common-sense smell test to ensure they resonate with the public.
Articulating Labour's Successes to the Public
Starmer has bought himself precious time, but Hazarika warns he must use every minute to turn things around. Winning support from colleagues is important, but convincing the public is critical. The Prime Minister needs to tell a clear story of Labour's achievements, such as reducing NHS waiting lists and building new power stations, to demonstrate tangible progress.
However, this cannot be done alone. As a football fan, Starmer understands that championships are won by teams, not individuals. With stakes at an all-time high, collaboration is key to success.
Ending the Boys' Club Culture
Hazarika highlights the urgent need to dismantle the "boys' club" culture that has long dominated politics, especially within Labour. While more women are in parliament and ministerial roles, questions remain about male-dominated decision-making behind the throne, exemplified by appointments like Peter Mandelson's despite controversial associations.
She welcomes the appointment of brilliant women to top jobs in No. 10, hoping it signals a sea change. Achieving a critical mass of women in decision-making rooms is essential, moving beyond stereotypical roles like note-taking or serving refreshments.
Balancing AI Innovation with Human Talent
On technology, Hazarika sounds alarm bells about the AI revolution, warning of mass unemployment and ethical risks. Creative professionals, including writers and musicians, already face issues like work being ripped off or replaced by AI. While AI offers benefits, she cautions against sacrificing human talent at the altar of tech bros, advocating for a balanced approach that preserves artistic integrity.
Addressing Immigration and Wealth Misconceptions
Finally, Hazarika criticises Sir Jim Ratcliffe for his inflammatory comments about immigration, calling them a nasty dog whistle based on dodgy stats. She supports nuanced discussions on immigration and integration but condemns such rhetoric. Reflecting on Ratcliffe's wealth and apparent misery, she notes it proves money cannot buy happiness, underscoring the need for values-driven politics over divisive tactics.
