Labour Conference gossip and secrets and techniques from behind the scenes of day 2
Labour’s Conference isn’t just about Keir Starmer’s big speeches and heavily trailed policy announcements.
Away from the keynote speeches, in the hotel bars, drinks receptions and late-night parties is where the real fun unfolds.
Every day, the Mirror Politics team – and our army of willing spies – brings you all the gossip, secrets and behind-closed-doors intrigue from the new Government’s gathering in Liverpool.
A breath of fresh air
WES Streeting’s proposed ban on smoking outside pubs has divided opinion up and down the country.
But which Labour MP was so miffed at the idea that they were spotted pointedly blowing smoke in the Health Secretary’s direction outside a boozy late-night Conference Party in the early hours of Monday morning?
The wheels (of steel) on the bus
TRANSPORT Secretary Louise Haigh took to the wheels of steel last night with a DJ set at the Labour Students party.
Her transport themed setlist included Rihanna ’s ‘Shut Up and Drive’, Vengaboys’ ‘the Vengabus Is Coming’ – and the slightly more tenuous ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ by…Journey.
Sue-prise!
TALK of Sue Gray having swerved Labour Party Conference may have been premature.
Word on the street is Keir Starmer ’s chief of staff was expected to arrive in Liverpool last night so she can join the PM for his big conference speech today, before flying with him to the UN.
Chilli vibes
SNAPPILY dressed hot sauce mogul Levi Roots was a surprise guest at Dawn Butler’s Jamaica Party on Sunday night.
Of course, he dazzled the crowd both with his bright red shirt, waistcoat and trilby – and by singing his famous Reggae Reggae Sauce song.
Tory Conference? I think I’d better leave right now
POP Idol Young is set to be the musical turn at a shindig hosted by industry body UK Music tonight in Liverpool.
Last year indie bores Toploader came under fire for performing at the same event at both Labour and Tory conferences.
But Labour voter Will Young will avoid a similar furore this year, because organisers have booked another act to perform at the Conservatives’ bash in Birmingham next week.
And who is the brave singer willing to face online ridicule and belt out his hits for Rishi Sunak ’s depleted party? None other than Peter Andre.
Conference Highlights today
- 11am: The Mirror’s Nuclear test veterans fringe event, hosted by our own Susie Boniface, with Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham
- 2pm: Keir Starmer’s keynote speech
