Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has come under fire after granting an interview to The Sun, a newspaper deeply unpopular in Liverpool due to its controversial coverage of the Hillsborough disaster. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from MPs and campaigners who accuse Starmer of insensitivity towards the victims' families.
Why is The Sun Boycotted in Liverpool?
Liverpool has maintained a decades-long boycott of The Sun following its inaccurate and inflammatory reporting on the 1989 Hillsborough tragedy, where 97 football fans lost their lives. The newspaper's infamous "The Truth" headline, which falsely blamed fans for the disaster, remains a source of profound hurt in the city.
Political Fallout for Starmer
Several Labour MPs, including Liverpool representatives, have publicly condemned Starmer’s decision to engage with the publication. Critics argue it undermines the party’s commitment to justice for Hillsborough families. One backbencher stated: "This isn’t just about politics—it’s about basic respect."
Government Defends Press Freedom
Downing Street has sidestepped the controversy, emphasizing the importance of media plurality. A spokesperson said: "Ministers engage with all outlets to communicate policies." However, the defence has done little to quell the anger in Merseyside.
As pressure mounts, Starmer faces calls to issue a direct apology to Liverpool and reaffirm Labour’s solidarity with Hillsborough campaigners.
