Labour Party leader Keir Starmer has criticized Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, for his lack of condemnation towards a Reform UK councillor who referred to children in care as “downright evil.” Starmer called Farage “utterly spineless” for failing to denounce the comments, which he described as “utterly appalling.”
During a session of Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Labour MP Darren Paffey raised concerns about the “vile” remarks made by Reform UK’s Andy Osborn, who is currently under investigation for a potential breach of the members’ code of conduct. Paffey urged the House to join him in condemning the “disgraceful” comments and sought reassurance from Starmer that the Labour government will continue to support care leavers.
In response, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to support care leavers through the landmark Children’s Wellbeing Bill, emphasizing that every child deserves the support to realize their potential. He expressed disappointment at the opposition parties for voting against the bill and condemned the comments about children in care as “utterly appalling.”
Mr. Farage defended his lack of immediate condemnation by citing time constraints during the session and diverted the discussion to address the issue of asylum hotels. He mentioned the actions taken by the Reform-led West Northamptonshire Council to issue foreclosure notices on migrant hotels, signaling a response to public concerns about the safety of women and girls in the area.
Starmer also criticized Farage for not taking action against MP Sarah Pochin following her controversial remarks, adding to the criticism of the Reform leader’s handling of such matters. In a previous incident involving Pochin’s comments, Farage expressed dissatisfaction with the comments but defended her intentions, stating they were not meant to be racist.
Pochin later apologized for any offense caused by her statement, clarifying that her comments were poorly phrased and not intended to offend anyone. The incident sparked a backlash, prompting her to address the issue and express regret over the unintended impact of her words.
