Nigel Farage’s Reform UK has been cautioned by Keir Starmer for aiming to sow discord within communities, urging his top ministers to stay focused on addressing the cost of living and providing clear choices for voters. The Prime Minister emphasized the contrast between a Labour government working to rebuild the nation and a Reform movement that thrives on discontent, decline, and division.
Highlighting the stakes of the political battle, Starmer warned that Reform UK seeks to weaken the state, incite hostility in communities, and curry favor with Putin. He stressed the importance of embracing the challenge as the fight of their political lives.
During the first meeting of 2026, Starmer encouraged his Cabinet not to waver in the face of speculation regarding his leadership, especially with key elections approaching in England, Scotland, and Wales in May. Acknowledging the challenging national opinion polls, it is anticipated that Labour may face significant setbacks, potentially raising doubts about Starmer’s future as Prime Minister.
In a closed political gathering of the Cabinet, the PM acknowledged the magnitude of the task ahead and expressed confidence in the team’s ability to persevere. He emphasized that governments falter not due to declining polls but when they lose faith or determination, asserting that they will uphold both.
Starmer reiterated to his Cabinet the paramount importance of addressing the cost of living as the government’s primary focus, undeterred by global uncertainties. Affirming support for struggling families, the Prime Minister warned ministers that their performance will be judged based on whether citizens feel financially better off at the next election.
Lucy Powell, removed from Cabinet by Starmer in September, attended the political Cabinet meeting as Deputy Leader, expressing gratitude for being embraced in her new role and eager to advocate for the government’s priorities. The emphasis on domestic issues comes amidst ongoing international tensions such as the US’s actions towards Greenland and Starmer’s upcoming participation in a meeting of Ukraine’s allies in Paris.
Despite the backdrop of global unrest, Starmer emphasized that grappling with the cost of living crisis remains the government’s core focus.