Prime Minister Keir Starmer has rejected Tony Blair's criticism of his government's direction, insisting that his policies are suited to the challenges of 2024, not 1997. Speaking at an apprentice training centre in west London, Starmer said he disagreed with much of Blair's analysis, arguing that the former prime minister misunderstands the government's successes and the 'very different' situation it inherited.
Blair, in a lengthy essay published on Tuesday, accused Starmer of abandoning the centre ground and putting Labour's future at risk. He also criticised Starmer for not ditching manifesto pledges on workers' rights and net zero, and for failing to support Donald Trump's attack on Iran. Starmer countered that his policy choices have been vindicated, citing economic stabilisation, wealth creation, and improved public services as evidence.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, also criticised by Blair, responded by highlighting the 'gaping omission' of falling living standards since the 2008 financial crisis in Blair's analysis. Writing in the Times, Burnham argued that deregulation, which Blair advocates, was a cause of the 2008 crash and would not solve current problems. He emphasised the need for strong public control over investment and enablers like transport and energy.
Starmer later published a near-3,000-word essay outlining his differences with Blair, while acknowledging some areas of agreement. He admitted the early mood of his government was 'too negative' but remained confident in his major political choices. Burnham welcomed Blair's intervention, noting its timing during a byelection campaign.
