1 hour ago, Treasury minister Bim Afolami expressed concern that the Conservatives have not come to terms with the possibility of losing the upcoming election. Meanwhile, Sunak, at the G7 summit, criticized Labour for potentially giving Reform UK a “blank cheque.” Streeting highlighted the growing NHS waiting lists in England, questioning Rishi Sunak’s credibility. The recklessness of Conservative economic policies has left Labour facing tough decisions.
Shadow business secretary Jonathan Reynolds defended the Labour manifesto on Sky News, emphasizing the party’s ambitious plans for industrial strategy, energy transition, and public services. He stressed the need for genuine change to make a difference in people’s lives. Reynolds acknowledged the challenges faced by Labour after the 2019 defeat but emphasized the party’s recent byelection victories as a sign of progress.
Chief secretary to the Treasury Laura Trott is set to respond to Labour’s manifesto launch shortly, with updates expected from her press conference in Westminster. In a lighter note, Libby Brooks humorously suggested her dog might start an election podcast, adding a touch of humor to the campaign.
In a positive development for Labour, a council byelection in Clydebank Central ward showed a significant swing towards the party, electing Scottish Labour candidate Fiona Hennebry in a previously SNP stronghold. This result was described as “extraordinary” by Scottish Labour Deputy Leader Jackie Baillie, providing a morale boost for the party in the midst of the election campaign.