Starmer defends policy choices after Blair criticism

The current prime minister said recent growth figures and falling NHS waiting lists vindicate decisions made since taking office. Former prime minister Tony Blair argued in a 5,600-word essay that the government lacks a coherent plan.

Blair's critique Blair said measures including higher employer National Insurance contributions, new workers' rights laws and the planned phase-out of the British oil and gas industry had held back business. He wrote that the principal problem is the absence of a worked-out plan for the country in a fast-changing world.

Starmer's response The current prime minister told broadcasters he agreed the party should discuss policy and ideas. He added that he did not agree the policy choices were wrong given the situation inherited in 2024.

Political context Labour's polling has fallen sharply since its 2024 landslide victory. The government has pointed to wars in Ukraine and Iran as factors raising the cost of living. A by-election in Makerfield is scheduled in the coming weeks. Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is expected to stand in that contest and has been mentioned as a potential leadership challenger.