Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, has recently introduced a plan aimed at increasing access to the arts, criticizing the Conservative Party for overlooking the cultural needs of working individuals. During a speech at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Starmer discussed measures including combating ticket touting and fostering creative education for children. Although he mentioned that immediate funding for these initiatives might be challenging, he emphasized the significance of arts and sports in education and promised swift reforms to benefit the sector. Notables such as artist Damien Hirst and singers Beverley Knight and Will Young have shown their support, particularly for the proposal to regulate resale prices for live events. However, Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer responded by highlighting the Conservative Party’s achievements in supporting jobs and growth within the creative industries, thereby criticizing Labour’s approach.

In addition to cultural plans, Starmer has been addressing concerns from the business community regarding Labour’s proposed labor market reforms. Despite some business leaders’ anxieties about the potential negative impacts on job creation and businesses, Starmer has assured that ample consultation will occur with businesses, unions, and experts to refine these reforms. The “New Deal for Working People,” introduced in 2021, advocates for significant changes including banning zero-hour contracts and promoting a “right to switch off” from work, aiming for a balanced improvement in workers’ rights and workplace productivity.

Both initiatives represent Labour’s broader strategy to appeal to voters by focusing on cultural engagement and labor rights, amidst criticisms and concerns from the Conservatives and the business sector.