Story perspectives

Union Leader Urges Labour to Tackle Cost of Living

1/3/2026

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Nowak Urges Starmer

Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), urged Keir Starmer to prioritise addressing cost of living to prevent support slipping to Nigel Farage's Reform party.
Nowak warned that many working-class people are struggling and uncertain about their economic future.
Nowak acknowledged Labour missteps but urged highlighting achievements and raising living standards.
A Deltapoll survey shows cost of living remains voters' top concern ahead of the elections.

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Starmer Addresses Voters

Prime Minister Keir Starmer will address disillusioned voters and Labour MPs in 2026 with cost-of-living initiatives.
The speech will highlight energy-bill cuts, rate cuts, and the end of the two-child benefit cap.
Morgan McSweeney, Starmer's chief adviser, calls 2026 a "year of proof" and promises improvements in services and living costs.
Many Labour MPs express frustration over early policy decisions, and have declined invitations to Starmer's receptions.

History

Historical Context

The Winter of Discontent, spanning late 1978 to February 1979, saw widespread strikes in the UK as unions demanded pay rises amid soaring inflation, which peaked at 26.9% in 1975. Prime Minister James Callaghan's government faced severe public backlash, culminating in a no-confidence vote that led to the Conservative victory in the 1979 election, highlighting ongoing struggles for workers' rights and economic stability.

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Nowak Urges Starmer

Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), urged Keir Starmer to prioritise addressing cost of living to prevent support slipping to Nigel Farage's Reform party.
Nowak warned that many working-class people are struggling and uncertain about their economic future.
Nowak acknowledged Labour missteps but urged highlighting achievements and raising living standards.
A Deltapoll survey shows cost of living remains voters' top concern ahead of the elections.

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