Labor Pledges Choice to ‘Toxic Divide and Decline’ as Conference Begins
LIVERPOOL, UK – September 27, 2025 – Labour leader Keir Starmer today opened the Labour Party’s annual conference in Liverpool with a direct challenge to the Reform Party, asserting Labour offers a viable alternative to what he characterized as their “toxic divide and decline.” Starmer’s remarks signal a sharpened focus on directly confronting the rising political force led by Nigel Farage,framing the upcoming general election as a choice between Labour’s constructive vision and Reform’s divisive rhetoric.
The Labour conference, running through September 29th, presents a crucial possibility for the party to showcase its policy platform and demonstrate its readiness to govern. With national polls consistently favoring Labour, the event is designed to solidify support among voters disillusioned with the Conservative government and increasingly concerned about the state of public services and the economy. The stakes are high as Labour aims to present a detailed and credible plan for addressing key issues like the cost of living, NHS waiting lists, and the future of the railway system.
Starmer specifically addressed the railway system, a key battleground in the political debate. He highlighted labour’s commitment to public ownership,contrasting it with what he described as the failures of the current privatized model. Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to outline further economic proposals during the conference, focusing on responsible spending and investment in key sectors.
The conference agenda also includes discussions on strengthening workers’ rights, tackling climate change, and improving educational opportunities. Contributors to The Guardian’s live coverage include Peter Walker, Jessica Murray, and Pippa Crerar.
