Labour's party chair has issued a defiant pledge that Sir Keir Starmer will "absolutely" remain as Prime Minister by next Christmas, while launching a scathing critique of Nigel Farage's Reform UK.
Turley's Confident Pledge Amid Polling Woes
In an interview with Sky News, Labour Chair Anna Turley struck an optimistic tone, insisting British families will begin to feel tangible improvements in their daily lives in the new year. Her comments come as the Prime Minister faces a challenging period, with unfavourable opinion polls and whispers of internal discontent within Labour ranks.
When directly questioned on whether Sir Keir would still be in Number 10 next Christmas, Turley was unequivocal. "Of course, absolutely," she stated. She argued that people will soon "see and feel the change in their pockets" as Labour's plans to tackle the cost of living and rebuild public services take effect.
A Brutal Assessment of Reform UK's Offer
Turley used the platform to deliver a harsh condemnation of Reform UK, positioning them as a party of "decline" and "division." She asserted that Reform offers "nothing" to assist ordinary people struggling with rising bills.
Her attack focused on several key policy areas:
- Accusing Reform of having no substantive plan for the NHS beyond privatisation and a shift to an insurance model.
- Claiming the party opposes enhanced workers' rights, including improved maternity and paternity pay.
- Alleging that Reform's platform is built on tax cuts for the wealthiest rather than support for working people.
This offensive follows an exclusive poll for the Mirror, published on December 21st, which placed Labour on 20% and the Conservatives on 19%, with Reform UK leading at 30%.
Focus on Local Elections and Cabinet Unity
Turley emphasised that the Labour Party is "ruthlessly focused" on day-to-day delivery across government departments, from the NHS and education to defence and housing. She vowed the party would contest "every single vote" in the upcoming local elections in May 2026, a date seen by many MPs as a critical benchmark for the Prime Minister's leadership.
Her comments also served to quell rumours of internal strife. She reiterated Health Secretary Wes Streeting's recent declaration of "absolute support" for Sir Keir, following a period of intense briefing wars within Westminster in November. Streeting himself has dismissed speculation about a joint leadership ticket with Deputy Leader Angela Rayner.
The political battle lines are now firmly drawn, with Labour's chair projecting unwavering confidence in her leader while attempting to dismantle the appeal of their surging rival on the right.
