Susanna Reid, the popular presenter of Good Morning Britain, has recently expressed her concerns about the policy decisions made by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. In an interview on the BBC’s Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Reid warned that the PM’s plans to cut benefits while increasing defence spending could lead to a voter backlash.
The prime minister has announced that the military budget will be increased from 2.3% to 2.5% of national income from 2027. This decision comes amidst mounting tensions over the war in Ukraine and will be funded by slashing the amount spent on international aid. In addition, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall is set to unveil plans to cut the welfare bill by up to £6 billion on Tuesday.
However, Reid believes that these policy decisions could land the PM in a fresh political crisis. She stated, “There’s no doubt that Keir Starmer has developed a reputation as somebody who can operate very effectively on the international stage. But the thing is, if you ask people on the doorsteps, of course they want to back Ukraine but at what price? If the things that he’s flexing his muscles over at home – be it benefits or Personal Independence Payments for people – if it looks like he’s using cuts to welfare to pay for war, I’m not sure that’s going to be popular at all.”
Reid’s concerns were echoed by Kuenssberg, who earlier asked Health Secretary Wes Streeting, “As a Labour politician, did you get into politics in order to take money from some of the poorest and most vulnerable people in society?” Streeting responded by saying, “We don’t want to take money from the poorest in society, we want to support people who are the poorest and most vulnerable to make sure they’ve got dignity, independence and great quality of life.”
This debate over the government’s spending priorities has sparked a heated discussion within the Labour party. Some have accused Starmer of “changing into the Tories” and abandoning the party’s traditional values of supporting the most vulnerable in society. However, Starmer remains determined to push through these cuts, even if it means facing opposition from within his own party.
But as Reid pointed out, the potential consequences of these decisions could have a significant impact on the PM’s reputation and popularity. While it is important to support Ukraine and maintain a strong defence, it should not come at the cost of neglecting the needs of the most vulnerable in society.
Reid’s warning serves as a reminder that the government must carefully consider the implications of their actions and ensure that they are not sacrificing the well-being of their own citizens in the pursuit of international affairs. As the saying goes, “charity begins at home,” and it is crucial for the government to prioritize the needs of its own people before engaging in costly military endeavors.
In the midst of a global pandemic and economic crisis, it is more important than ever to support those who are struggling the most. The pandemic has highlighted the inequalities and vulnerabilities within our society, and it is the government’s responsibility to address these issues and provide support to those in need.
Reid’s words also serve as a reminder to the Labour party of their core values and the importance of staying true to them. As a party that has always championed the rights of the working class and the most vulnerable, it is crucial for them to continue fighting for these causes and not lose sight of their principles.
In conclusion, Susanna Reid’s warning to Keir Starmer serves as a wake-up call for the government to carefully consider their spending priorities and the potential consequences of their decisions. It is essential for them to find a balance between supporting international affairs and taking care of their own citizens. As for the Labour party, it is crucial for them to stay true to their values and continue fighting for the rights of the most vulnerable in society. Only then can we truly build a fair and just society for all.
