Labour leader Keir Starmer criticized Reform UK for engaging in divisive politics in a heated exchange during PMQs. Starmer challenged Reform UK’s chief whip to have party leader Nigel Farage address controversial allegations from his past. This confrontation stemmed from accusations by individuals who claimed Farage had made racist and antisemitic remarks during his school days, which Farage denies.

When pressed by Reform UK’s Lee Anderson in Parliament, Starmer humorously remarked on Anderson’s unexpected talent for comedy. Starmer hit back at Anderson’s accusations of Labour’s use of “dog whistle politics,” highlighting Farage’s failure to condemn racist comments made by his party members.

These remarks sparked laughter and jeers in the chamber. Starmer pointed out that Farage had refused to condemn his party member’s derogatory remarks about children in care being “evil.” This exchange follows Starmer’s recent criticism of the Reform chief as “utterly spineless” for not denouncing similar comments by a Reform UK councillor.

During a previous PMQs session, Starmer condemned Farage for avoiding condemnation of appalling remarks and shifting the focus to asylum hotels. The dispute arose when Labour MP Darren Paffey raised concerns about derogatory comments made by Reform UK’s Andy Osborn, triggering an investigation for potential code of conduct violations.

At the latest PMQs, Anderson prodded Starmer to assure that council elections will proceed as planned next year. He challenged Starmer, urging him to show courage in his decisions. This ongoing exchange highlights the tensions between the two parties over issues of accountability and condemning divisive rhetoric within their ranks.