What to expect from Andy Burnham at Labour party conference Opinion Andy Burnham’s first conference speech will crown an extraordinary for the former Mayor of Manchester turned Prime Minister, but it’s also the moment he must explain how he will meet the challenges ahead, says Douglas Beattie What a difference a year makes – 12 months ago, amid growing leadership speculation, Andy Burnham was telling journalists [...]
Keir today, gone tomorrow: A London by-election may spell danger for Labour Opinion Holborn and St Pancras has been held by Labour for 43 years, but the rise of the Greens, and the thrill of a by-election, could spell trouble.
Rachel Reeves’ Budget was Labour to the core Opinion Cheered by backbenchers, Reeves' headline pledge to scrap the two child benefit cap made for a party-appeasing Budget, writes Douglas Beattie.
What should Labour supporters make of a conference dominated by Reform? October 1, 2025 Keir Starmer wants to frame the choice facing Britain as one between decency and division, but will a restless electorate anxious to see results let him? Asks Douglas Beattie There are three types of party conference – the dreary, the victorious and the tense. The first of these often emerges after a long period in [...]
Labour can’t afford to dismiss Corbyn and Sultana August 5, 2025 Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultanah's new party should worry Labour, especially if it gets backing from the trade unions, writes Douglas Beattie.
Starmer’s had a bad year – here’s what he must do next July 4, 2025 Following a chaotic and deeply damaging row over welfare cuts, Keir Starmer can’t afford any more cock-ups, says Douglas Beattie A year ago the general election campaign was closing and the country was about to vote for the first Labour government in 14 years. A year on, many at the top of the party accept [...]
