Starmer Advocates for Increased State Control in Labour Conference Speech

Sir Keir Starmer has outlined a vision for increased government involvement in various aspects of British life during his inaugural Labour conference speech as Prime Minister. The address, delivered in Liverpool on September 24, 2024, emphasized the concept of "control" and its application across multiple sectors.

Starmer invoked the Brexit campaign slogan "take back control," repurposing it to advocate for more decisive government action in areas such as healthcare, energy, justice, education, and the economy. This approach marks a significant departure from his earlier statements, including his first speech as Prime Minister in July 2024, where he promised to "tread more lightly" on citizens' lives.

The Labour leader acknowledged the necessity of markets and competition in the economy but argued that they do not provide the control many citizens desire. He stated, "If you want a country with more control, if you want the great forces that affect your community to be better managed – whether that's migration, climate change, law and order, or security at work – then that does need more decisive government, and that is a Labour Government."

Starmer addressed controversial issues, including the construction of pylons in rural areas and the acceptance of asylum seekers, framing them as necessary "trade-offs" for achieving broader goals such as affordable electricity and addressing illegal migration.

The speech has drawn criticism from Conservative Party members. Robert Jenrick, a Conservative leadership candidate, expressed skepticism about Starmer's ability to manage a "command-and-control economy." Laura Trott, the Tory shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, argued that Labour's approach demonstrates a lack of understanding of the economy's needs.

Starmer's rhetoric echoes some aspects of his predecessor Rishi Sunak's approach, particularly in emphasizing the need for long-term decisions and potential short-term financial challenges. The Labour leader hinted at potential tax increases, suggesting that the wealthy may bear a larger share of the burden.

The Prime Minister's speech reflects a broader trend of increased government intervention under his leadership. Recent initiatives include plans to renationalize railways, ban cigarette sales, and establish a state-run energy company. Starmer cited events such as the Grenfell Tower fire and sewage pollution in rivers as examples necessitating greater state involvement.

"Working people do want more decisive government. They do want us to rebuild our public services. And they do want that to lead to more control in their lives."

As the UK approaches its next general election, due no later than January 2025, Starmer's vision for a more interventionist government is likely to be a key point of debate between Labour and the traditionally small-state Conservative Party.