Lucy Powell has said that Labour must show more strongly that it is on the side of ordinary people and their families, as she defended the government's record on tackling vested interests and economic inequalities.
Taking on vested interests
Writing exclusively for this website, the Labour Deputy Leader pointed to the windfall tax on energy profits, which she said was justified given that BP's profits had more than doubled as a result of the Iran war. Despite pressure from some, Labour continues to impose the levy.
Powell argued that each economic crisis sees some profiting while others pay the price, citing the 2008 financial crisis, the Covid pandemic, and the current energy price shock. She said Labour is focused on rewiring the economy so it works for everyone, perhaps too quietly taking on those with power and vested interests.
Clean energy and workers' rights
She stressed that establishing GB Energy and accelerating the transition to clean, homegrown power is the only way to protect the UK from future energy price shocks. Powell also highlighted the government's record on protecting workers, giving the lowest paid a pay rise, and implementing the Renter's Rights Act to stabilise rents and end bidding wars.
However, she acknowledged that more needs to be done, saying: "I know people are frustrated. They're disillusioned. I hear that. We must show more strongly we are here for you and your family, especially in the more difficult times."
Criticism of Reform and Greens
Powell launched a fierce attack on Nigel Farage and Reform UK, accusing them of not being friends of working people. She claimed they want to scrap the windfall energy tax, introduce an insurance-based NHS, and have raised taxes and cut services in the councils they control. She also criticised Reform and the Tories for wanting to follow Donald Trump into the war in the first place.
Turning to the Greens, she accused them of showing their true colours by criticising the police over the apprehension of the Golders Green attacker.
Welcome end to Birmingham bin strikes
Powell welcomed the end to the long-running Birmingham bin strikes, praising Labour Council Leader John Cotton and Unite the Union's Sharon Graham for reaching a resolution. She described the deal as being in the interests of the city, its workers, residents, and its future.
Good luck to exam students
On a personal note, Powell revealed that her daughter is taking her first GCSE exam on May 7th, with 26 exams in total. She said GCSEs are much tougher than in her day and wished good luck to all students taking exams.
Football rivalry
Powell, a Manchester City fan, joked about the title race with Labour leader and Arsenal fan Keir Starmer, saying: "Here's to Arsenal bottling it again (sorry boss!)."
