Labour's Response to Rising Far-Right Sentiment: Calls for Action and Unity

In the lead-up to a planned far-right demonstration in London, senior Labour MPs and the anti-fascist group Hope Not Hate have urged Labour leader Keir Starmer to adopt a more vigorous defense of diversity and anti-racism. Nick Lowles, chief executive of Hope Not Hate, emphasized the need for Starmer to speak out against hate and racism, stating, “Hate breeds when those in power are silent.” This call reflects concerns among Labour MPs that the party has not adequately challenged the growing influence of far-right figures like Nigel Farage, particularly during a summer marked by protests against asylum seekers and divisive rhetoric.

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Several Labour MPs, including former deputy leadership candidates, have expressed that the party has a unique responsibility to counter the rise of the far-right. Bell Ribeiro-Addy articulated that “only the Labour party can stop this from happening,” highlighting the immense pressure and opportunity for the party to reclaim its narrative. Stella Creasy, MP for Walthamstow, pointed out that the history and future of the UK are intertwined with immigration, urging the party to tell a positive story about diversity rather than allowing it to be framed as a threat.

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There is a growing sentiment within Labour that Starmer's approach has been insufficient in confronting the far-right narrative. A senior Labour source remarked on the need for clarity regarding the party's purpose and the urgency of addressing the potential shift towards a radical right government. MPs like Louise Haigh have criticized the party for allowing the far-right to dominate discussions on migration and minority communities, warning that this failure could exacerbate societal tensions.

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Lowles has called for Starmer to publish a new community cohesion strategy, citing ongoing divisions and hostility in the UK. He noted that known far-right groups have exploited local issues to stage protests, which have further fueled anti-migrant sentiment. The urgency of addressing these issues is underscored by the recent rise in anti-migrant demonstrations and the need for a united front against divisive politics.

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The Labour Party's response to the far-right's growing influence is critical not only for its political future but also for the social fabric of the UK. As tensions rise, the party faces pressure to articulate a clear and inclusive vision that counters the narratives propagated by the far-right. The upcoming deputy leadership race is expected to highlight these themes, with candidates urged to present a robust defense of Labour's core values.

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• “Hate breeds when those in power are silent. I implore you and other ministers to speak out urgently in defence of our migrant communities and our multicultural society more generally. It is imperative we all push back against the onslaught of racism we currently face because silence will only encourage our opponents more.” — Nick Lowles, Chief Executive of Hope Not Hate

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• “The former cabinet minister Louise Haigh said: “In recent months we’ve seen the far right allowed to set the terms of debate on migrants and minority communities, with too little challenge from those in power.” — Louise Haigh, Former Cabinet Minister

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• “Only the Labour party can stop this from happening,” — Bell Ribeiro-Addy, MP

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While many Labour MPs advocate for a stronger anti-racism stance, there are differing opinions on how effectively the party has responded to the far-right's narratives. Some sources suggest that Starmer has conceded too much ground in discussions about migration, while others believe that the party's current strategy is adequate but requires more vocal support from its leadership. The lack of a cohesive community strategy further complicates the party's position in addressing these challenges.

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