Sir Keir Starmer faced criticism after declaring Labour 'the patriotic party' during a St George's Day reception at Downing Street. The Prime Minister, who described himself as 'a proud Englishman', argued that the St George's Cross belongs to everyone and should not be conceded to the far-right.
Reform UK MP Richard Tice dismissed the claim, stating that true patriotism requires leadership, and accused Labour of overseeing economic failure, open borders, and national decline. Tice cited a 22-point drop in pride in being British under Labour's stewardship.
At the event, Starmer highlighted England's diversity, noting that both he, from a working-class background, and his predecessor Rishi Sunak, 'an English Hindu', had become prime minister. He warned of a 'never-ending fight for our flag', referencing the far-right riots following the Southport stabbings.
Tice countered that Reform UK would always put the British people first, encouraging them to stay and invest rather than flee under Labour or Tory misrule. The exchange underscores ongoing political divisions over national identity.
