Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has robustly defended his controversial call for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to resign, asserting that the public will appreciate his "honesty" despite minimal backing from Scottish MPs. In a candid interview with BBC Scotland's Sunday Show, Sarwar addressed the fallout from his statement earlier this week, which made him the most senior Labour figure to demand Starmer's departure.
Sarwar Stands Firm on Resignation Demand
Sarwar reiterated his position, citing "far too many mistakes" in Downing Street as justification for his demand. He emphasized that his decision was based on personal conviction rather than any orchestrated "coup attempt" against the Prime Minister. When questioned about his diminished standing within Labour due to the lack of support from Scottish MPs, Sarwar countered that many in politics mistakenly view honesty as a weakness.
Honesty Versus Political Loyalty
"Far too many people in politics think honesty is weakness," Sarwar stated. "I think the opposite, and it's why so many people in the public get turned off from politics. I think honesty is strength." He further accused First Minister John Swinney and the SNP of "dishonesty" on issues such as ferry construction and hospital infections in Glasgow, framing his stance as a principled contrast.
Campaign Dynamics and Party Unity
Regarding the upcoming Scottish Parliament election, Sarwar confirmed he would lead the campaign "from the front," with Starmer welcome only as a grassroots supporter. "If he wants to come and chap doors as a Labour Party member, of course he'd be welcome to come and chap doors and encourage people to vote for me to be first minister," Sarwar said, noting that Starmer is not expected to speak at the Scottish Labour conference.
Controversy Over Suspended MSP
Sarwar also addressed the suspension of MSP Pam Duncan-Glancy, who defended her relationship with convicted sex offender Sean Morton. Duncan-Glancy expressed disappointment at losing the whip, arguing Morton deserved support despite his crimes. Sarwar firmly rejected this, stating, "If someone is a convicted paedophile, they deserve to be shunned. They don't deserve friendship or loyalty."
This episode underscores the ongoing tensions within Labour, as Sarwar positions himself as a voice of integrity amid political turmoil, even as his call for Starmer's resignation isolates him from party colleagues.
