Labour MP Ash Sarkar confronted the party’s leader, Keir Starmer, on BBC Politics Live, criticising him for reneging on key campaign commitments, notably a £28 billion green investment plan. Sarkar’s remarks during the heated debate questioned Starmer’s reliability, amid a defence of his decisions by fellow Labour MP Sir Chris Bryant, who labeled Starmer’s actions as pragmatic rather than dishonest. The exchange underscored the friction within the party regarding Starmer’s leadership and the scrutiny over his policy amendments related to environmental spending, tuition fees, and workers’ rights.

Keir Starmer, during a visit to the Port of Holyhead in Wales with Welsh First Minister Vaughan Gething and Shadow Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, introduced Labour’s adjusted green policy, focusing on state-backed offshore windfarms, which he termed a “game-changer.” Despite the reduction from the initial £28 billion pledge, the party aimed to highlight its commitment to sustainable energy and job creation through this initiative. Starmer and Miliband, by outlining plans for establishing a publicly owned energy company, GB Energy, and expanding renewable energy efforts, reinforced Labour’s dedication to environmental priorities and economic advancement through green jobs.

In a separate development, Labour issued a stern warning to China against interference in UK democracy during the party’s initial engagement with Chinese officials under Starmer’s leadership. Shadow Asia Minister Catherine West articulated Labour’s positions on national security, human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, and interference in democratic processes. The discussions in Beijing also touched on global cooperation on environmental issues and support for British businesses in China. This dialogue came in the context of recent UK sanctions against Beijing-related hackers, illustrating a firm stance on protecting British democratic values and national security against external threats. Labour’s approach signifies a comprehensive reassessment of UK-China relations and a clear message on key issues of concern.