Keir Starmer to deal with nation as MPs name for him to give up over Mandelson scandal
The Prime Minister will try to move on from the Mandelson saga with a speech about a future Britain built on ‘common values, against the opposition forces who offer division and decline’
Peter Mandelson and Sir Keir Starmer (Image: Getty Images)
Sir Keir Starmer is set to deliver a major unity speech offering more funding to deprived communities. The Prime Minister will take a veiled swipe against Reform in his address to working people, local leaders and business champions on Thursday (February 5).
He will take “a stand in defence of a decent and tolerant Britain” built on “common values, against the opposition forces who offer division and decline”. His speech comes as the PM desperately seeks to move on from the Peter Mandelson scandal.
Sir Keir is expected to say: “I believe in our values. I believe in rules that protect those in need.
“I believe in the freedom to live and let live in decency and tolerance, in respect for difference under the same flag, a common good. We are bound by values, by common endeavour and by responsibilities we owe to one another as partners in the project of this great nation.
“That in a world that increasingly preys on weakness, I believe Britain is stronger as a tolerant, decent and respectful country.”
It comes as the PM faces heavy criticism for appointing Mandelson to be his US ambassador.
Appearing at PMQs on Wednesday (February 4), he told the Commons Mandelson “lied repeatedly” about his relationship with Epstein. He said he regrets appointing him in 2024.
But during a later debate, MPs lined up to criticise him – including from his own party. Labour MP John McDonnell said: “I’d never call for him to go but I have lost confidence in him, yes, I certainly have.
“And I think the decisions around Mandelson certainly pushed me over the edge because I think this was such a poor decision … I think Keir needs to examine his own situation, certainly his own position.”
Tory MP Esther McVey said the saga will lead to the “crumbling” of his government.
In his speech on Thursday, the PM will highlight that more than 330 of the most deprived communities are being rejuvenated by the Government’s £5 billion Pride in Place Programme. He is set to announce a further £800m boost to support 40 new communities most in need.
Each will receive up to £20 million to clean up town centres, invest in youth services or open up better sports facilities.
Sir Keir added: “Britain has been undermined by political neglect, the scorched earth of Tory austerity. In towns across Britain, the same story, high streets, youth clubs – the places that shape a life – that bring different people together, that create the bonds of memory and pride – they were just abandoned.
“Because politics in this dangerous era is no longer about left and right, but a contest between renewal and grievance. Between those who accept the idea that society is a zero-sum competition and those who believe we can unite for the higher purpose.”
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