Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has admitted that the political Left has “got it wrong” on immigration, as he unveiled a plan to challenge the growing influence of the populist Right and win back working-class voters.
In an exclusive article for The Telegraph, Starmer criticized the policies of Reform UK, branding them as nothing more than “simple slogans.” He argued that the party’s approach fails to provide workable solutions to Britain’s migration challenges, while also warning that Labour must not underestimate the appeal of populist rhetoric.
Later today, Starmer is scheduled to deliver a major speech in London outlining his renewed focus on patriotism, national identity, and stricter migration controls. Central to his proposal is the introduction of mandatory digital ID cards, a controversial measure that he says would streamline immigration management, enhance security, and build public confidence in the system.
With his popularity in recent opinion polls slipping, the Labour leader is under pressure to reposition himself and reconnect with working-class voters who have drifted toward Conservative and Reform UK platforms. Analysts say the speech is both a strategic pivot and an effort to reset the narrative ahead of Labour’s upcoming party conference.
Starmer’s overt appeal to patriotism reflects his acknowledgement that Labour can no longer rely on traditional working-class loyalty. He aims to broaden the party’s base by assuring voters that Labour is serious about border security and national cohesion.
“Labour must be the party of fairness and security not slogans. Digital ID cards will close loopholes, strengthen enforcement, and reassure the public that Britain has control of its borders,” Starmer wrote in his Telegraph op-ed.
The announcement comes at a politically sensitive time. Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has been making headlines with his own progressive policies and rising profile, sparking speculation about competing visions within Labour. By refocusing the spotlight on immigration and national security, Starmer hopes to reassert his leadership and unify the party around a pragmatic, patriotic message.
However, critics warn that the plan could alienate progressive Labour supporters who oppose stricter migration measures. Some within the party fear the digital ID proposal may trigger civil liberties debates and risk framing Labour too closely with Conservative-style policies.
The intervention underscores the shifting landscape of British politics, where immigration remains a defining issue. With Reform UK tapping into discontent through sharp populist
messaging, and Conservatives struggling to present a unified stance, Labour’s positioning will likely shape the national debate in the run-up to the next election.
“Starmer is walking a fine line,” said political analyst James Cartwright. “He wants to reclaim patriotism for Labour, prove that the party is serious about borders, and undercut Reform UK’s appeal. But the risk is losing the progressive wing of his base in the process.”
As Labour heads into its annual conference, Starmer’s speech today will be seen as a litmus test of his ability to balance pragmatism with principle. The reception from both party members and the wider public will determine whether this shift strengthens his leadership or deepens internal divisions.
For Starmer, the gamble is clear: reframe Labour’s stance on immigration, rebrand as a patriotic force, and rebuild trust with working-class voters or risk ceding political ground to populists and rivals alike.
