Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has declared that the recent spate of internal briefings within Downing Street is actively undermining the UK Government's core message.
A Damaging Distraction
The political row erupted earlier this week following what the Prime Minister himself condemned as "completely unacceptable" briefings concerning Health Secretary Wes Streeting. Speaking to journalists at the Scottish Parliament on Thursday 13 November 2025, Sarwar expressed his full confidence in the Prime Minister but was unequivocal in his criticism of the internal conflict.
"It's not been helpful," Sarwar stated, emphasising that the situation had damaged the Government's public communications. He highlighted the particular sensitivity of the timing, noting, "I think it has undermined the message of the Government and, particularly going into the budget period, I don't think it's helpful."
Focus on the Future of Scotland
Sarwar sought to pivot the conversation towards the political landscape in Scotland and the upcoming Holyrood elections. He affirmed his belief in the Prime Minister's dedication, saying, "I know how hard the Prime Minister is working, I know how committed he is to change the country."
He then drew a sharp contrast with the Scottish Government, asserting that in six months' time, people have the chance to get rid of the First Minister. Sarwar positioned himself and Scottish Labour as the sole alternative, stating, "only I and Scottish Labour can do that." He concluded that the internal wrangling in Westminster "needs to stop" and that "people need to focus on doing their jobs."
Clarifying the Campaign Leadership
When questioned about the potential for the Prime Minister to campaign in Scotland ahead of the election, the Scottish Labour leader was firm in defining the roles. While acknowledging that the "Labour family" would be involved, he made a clear distinction.
"Let me be really clear, I am leading the campaign in the Scottish elections next year, I am the candidate for first minister, Keir Starmer is not standing to be first minister," Sarwar declared. He extended this clarification to other senior UK Labour figures, including Wes Streeting and Rachel Reeves.
He framed the impending electoral choice starkly for Scottish voters: "a third decade of SNP incompetence or a new direction with me and Scottish Labour."
