Sarwar Maintains Pressure on Starmer Despite Phone Call
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has emphatically stated that he did not retreat from his earlier calls for Prime Minister Keir Starmer to resign during a private phone conversation between the two politicians on Thursday. Speaking at a press conference in Edinburgh on Friday, Mr Sarwar addressed the media, revealing details of their discussion and reaffirming his position.
The "Nuclear Option" and Thursday's Conversation
Mr Sarwar described his public demand for Sir Keir to step down as taking the "nuclear option," a move he made on Monday following the controversy surrounding Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador. Despite this, the attempt to oust the Prime Minister ultimately failed, with Cabinet members quickly rallying to publicly support Sir Keir in the hours after Mr Sarwar's initial statement.
Regarding their Thursday phone call, Mr Sarwar provided insight into the tone and content of their exchange. "It was a perfectly fair and reasonable conversation about how we make sure that we are focused on the election on May 7," he explained. "He's determined that he wants to deliver for the people of Scotland. I made very clear that I want a UK Labour Government demonstrating it's delivering for Scotland, and I made clear that the choice in the election campaign is going to be between me and (First Minister) John Swinney."
No Backtracking on Resignation Demand
Crucially, Mr Sarwar emphasized that he did not soften his stance during the conversation. "I didn't step back from what I said, I stand by what I said and what I stated, but I'm looking to the future and the choice between me and John Swinney for this country," he declared. This clarification underscores the ongoing tension within Labour ranks as the party prepares for the upcoming election.
Feeling "Liberated" and Focused on Scotland
Mr Sarwar also expressed a sense of personal empowerment following his Monday statement. When asked if he felt stronger in his position, he responded, "Honesty is strength, not weakness. We have seen dishonesty from this SNP Government time and time again. I feel liberated and energised for the election campaign ahead, because, for me, my first loyalty and my first priority is to my country, Scotland."
In a lighter moment, Mr Sarwar joked about taking the "nuclear option" twice in one week, also referencing his party's renewed support for nuclear energy during the press conference. This dual use of the term highlighted both his political strategy and policy stance as the election approaches.
