Overview
- During a heated Commons exchange, Keir Starmer urged Reform chief whip Lee Anderson to have Nigel Farage explain “stories in today’s papers” about alleged racist and antisemitic remarks from Farage’s schooldays, which Farage rejects.
- Starmer also faulted Farage for previously saying he lacked time to condemn controversial comments by Reform figures, citing Sarah Pochin’s remarks about adverts and a councillor’s description of children in care as “evil.”
- Anderson accused Labour of dog‑whistle politics, claimed Reform‑run councils have identified more than £330 million in savings in six months, and pressed for assurances that deferred contests and next year’s local elections proceed in May 2026.
- A Farage spokesperson said he refutes the allegations reported by former classmates and indicated he could pursue legal proceedings.
- The confrontation came as some coverage highlighted polling reported by The Times suggesting notable dissatisfaction among Labour voters with Starmer’s leadership.