Glitter-Bombed by Extinction Rebellion Activist

Sir Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, made a bold move at the Labour conference by leading the audience in a standing ovation for Israel. This gesture signifies a departure from the party's previous stance under Jeremy Corbyn, who had referred to Hamas terrorists as his "friends." The moment was made even more dramatic when an Extinction Rebellion activist dumped glitter over Starmer's head as he took the stage.

Looking to the Future: Rebuilding Britain and a Decade of National Renewal

Despite the striking shift in the party's position on Israel, Sir Keir Starmer highlighted the challenges that lie ahead for the Labour Party. He emphasized the need to "rebuild" Britain if the party were to win the next General Election, comparing the task to the monumental efforts of previous Labour leaders like Clement Attlee, Harold Wilson, and Tony Blair. Starmer expressed his ambition to lead a "decade of national renewal," aiming for ten years in office.

A Changed Labour Party: Moving Away from Gesture Politics

Sir Keir Starmer made it clear that he wants to distance the Labour Party from the era of Jeremy Corbyn. He stated that it is time for the party to no longer be associated with "gesture politics" and protest movements. He assured the audience that the days of the party being in "thrall" to such politics are over, declaring, "We will never go back."

Strong Words on the Middle East and New Policy Announcements

One of the most notable moments of Sir Keir Starmer's speech was his condemnation of the violence in the Middle East, specifically addressing the actions of Hamas. He expressed support for the two-state solution, advocating for a safe and secure Israel alongside a Palestinian state. Starmer also announced a new policy on building new towns in order to make home ownership more accessible to the general population.

Criticism from Conservatives and Confrontation with a Glitter-Bomber

Sir Keir Starmer faced criticism from Conservative MPs who claimed that he failed to adequately address immigration and small boat arrivals in his speech. Additionally, during his speech, an Extinction Rebellion activist, who was later identified as Yaz Ashmawi, threw glitter over Starmer. The incident did not faze Starmer, who removed his jacket and rolled up his sleeves, reaffirming the party's commitment to progress and power rather than protest.

Ready to Govern: Labour's Shift in Focus

Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner echoed Starmer's sentiments, stating that the party is no longer focused on protest but on governing. She even jokingly mentioned her readiness to confront the disrupter, comparing herself to former deputy leader John Prescott, who once confronted an egg-throwing protester. Rayner emphasized that the party has changed and is now focused on taking action.

Additional reporting by Noah Hoffman and Jack Elsom