Anas Sarwar Details Private Chat with Keir Starmer After Demanding PM Quit
In a revealing press conference on Friday, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar disclosed details of a private conversation with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, following his explosive demand for the PM to resign earlier in the week. Sarwar joked that he had taken the "nuclear option" by calling for Starmer to stand down on Monday, a move that sent shockwaves through the Labour Party.
Standing Firm on Resignation Calls
Sarwar confirmed that during their chat on Thursday, he did not retract his calls for Starmer to quit, stating firmly, "I didn't step back from what I said, I stand by what I said and what I stated." The conversation occurred against the backdrop of the Peter Mandelson scandal threatening to engulf the Government, with Sarwar becoming the most senior Labour figure to demand the Prime Minister's resignation.
Despite this perilous moment for Starmer, the PM received a lifeline as Cabinet ministers publicly rallied around him. Sarwar noted that their discussion focused on the upcoming Scottish elections in May, with both agreeing to concentrate on electoral priorities. "It was a perfectly fair and reasonable conversation about how we make sure that we are focused on the election on May 7," Sarwar explained.
Focus on Scottish Elections and Unity
Sarwar emphasised that the choice in the Scottish election campaign would be between himself and First Minister John Swinney, highlighting his determination to secure a UK Labour Government that delivers for Scotland. He stressed, "I made very clear that I want a UK Labour Government demonstrating it's delivering for Scotland."
In a lighter moment, Sarwar quipped about taking the "nuclear option" twice in one week, referencing both his resignation call and his support for nuclear energy in Scotland. He described feeling "liberated" after demanding Starmer's resignation, asserting that "honesty is strength, not weakness." Sarwar criticised the SNP Government for dishonesty and reaffirmed his loyalty to Scotland as his top priority.
Labour Unity and Campaign Support
Despite the chaotic start to the week, Sarwar insisted that Labour in Scotland remains "100% united." He backed Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander in his role as co-chair of the party's campaign, despite Alexander's support for Starmer. "Douglas Alexander was appointed Secretary of State by Keir Starmer, he was appointed co-chair of the campaign by me, and I see no issue at all," Sarwar stated, adding that all Scottish Labour MPs would be involved in the campaign effort.
During a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Starmer expressed support for Sarwar, telling ministers that "the whole of the Labour Party" wants him to become first minister and will "fight for a Labour government in Scotland." This underscores the complex dynamics within the party as it navigates internal tensions while preparing for crucial elections.
