Labour leader Keir Starmer has criticized Nigel Farage as “utterly spineless” for not denouncing a Reform UK councilor who labeled children in care as “downright evil.” The Prime Minister condemned Farage for claiming he lacked time to disapprove of the remarks, which Starmer deemed “utterly appalling.” When pressed to condemn them, Farage stated he only had a brief moment to respond before diverting attention to the actions of a Reform-led council regarding asylum hotels.
During PMQs, Labour MP Darren Paffey highlighted the “vile” comments made by Reform UK’s Andy Osborn, who is under investigation for a potential breach of the members’ code of conduct. Paffey called on Starmer to affirm the government’s commitment to supporting care leavers while condemning Reform’s offensive rhetoric.
In response, the PM emphasized the importance of providing assistance to all children, particularly care leavers, through legislative measures like the children’s Wellbeing Bill. He expressed disappointment in opposing parties for rejecting the bill and condemned the derogatory remarks about children in care as “utterly appalling.”
Starmer also criticized Farage for his failure to condemn his councilor’s comments and for not taking action against MP Sarah Pochin after her controversial statements. He highlighted the government’s efforts to close migrant hotels and reduce their numbers, contrasting Farage’s inaction with the government’s determination to address pressing issues.
Following Ms. Pochin’s remarks in October, Farage expressed dissatisfaction with her comments but defended her intention, while Pochin apologized for any offense caused by her words, attributing them to poor phrasing.