Wed Sep 25 09:32:12 UTC 2024: ## Labour PM Starmer Delivers Speech, Omits LGBTQ+ Issues
Liverpool, UK – In his first address to the Labour Party conference as Prime Minister, Keir Starmer outlined a wide range of policies but notably omitted any mention of LGBTQ+ issues.
Starmer, who took office in July, focused on themes of equality and opportunity, promising a UK that “gives an equal voice to every person” and “won’t expect you to change who you are just to get on.” He also pledged to introduce the Hillsborough Law, combat benefit fraud, house veterans in need, and establish a new state-owned energy company in Aberdeen.
While LGBTQ+ people and issues such as rising hate crimes and long waiting lists for trans healthcare were not explicitly addressed, the PM’s speech emphasized acceptance and inclusivity. He envisions a Britain that “recognises you, sees you, respects you as part of our story.”
Starmer’s speech wasn’t without controversy. A heckler interrupted his call for “restraint and de-escalation” at the Israel-Lebanon border, shouting about children in Gaza before being removed. In a widely discussed moment, the PM also mistakenly called for the return of “sausages” instead of hostages.
Responding to the heckling, Starmer quipped, “This guy’s obviously got a pass from the 2019 conference,” referencing the previous Labour leadership under Jeremy Corbyn. “While he’s been protesting, we’ve been changing the party. That’s why we’ve got a Labour government.”
This response drew criticism from some, with political commentator Owen Jones calling it “genuinely vile behaviour.”
While the speech highlighted some of the Labour government’s priorities, the absence of any mention of LGBTQ+ issues has sparked discussion and debate.
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