Glitter Attack
Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, was covered in glitter during his speech at the party's conference. Despite the unexpected interruption, Starmer rallied the conference attendees in a standing ovation for Israel, a move that would have been unthinkable during Jeremy Corbyn's time as leader.
A Break from the Past
In a bid to distance the party from the Corbyn era, Starmer emphasized the need for a "changed Labour Party" that is no longer focused on "gesture politics" and protest. He called for a renewed focus on governing and rebuilding the country.
Support for Israel
Starmer condemned the "senseless murder" carried out by Hamas terrorists and expressed support for Israel's right to defend itself. He reiterated the party's belief in a two-state solution, with a safe and secure Israel alongside a Palestinian state.
Building New Towns
Starmer announced a new policy of building new towns, highlighting the importance of affordable housing and infrastructure. He emphasized the need to make home ownership accessible to all, not just a privileged few.
Short on Immigration
Conservative MPs criticized Starmer for only briefly mentioning immigration and small boat arrivals in his speech. They accused him of lacking substance and offering more of the same short-term decision-making.
Glitter-Bomber Identified
The person responsible for the glitter attack was identified as Yaz Ashmawi, a member of Extinction Rebellion's strategy team. He was arrested on suspicion of assault, breach of the peace, and causing a public nuisance.
Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner praised Starmer's handling of the disruption and emphasized the party's shift from protest to governance.
Overall, Starmer's speech aimed to position himself and the Labour Party as a new force ready to lead the country through a decade of national renewal.
