U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer Accuses Tories of Being “Economic Vandals” at Prime Minister’s Questions

In a fiery exchange at Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, Labour leader Keir Starmer accused the ruling Conservative Party of acting as “economic vandals” as the U.K. grapples with rising inflation and growing economic uncertainty. Starmer’s comments came as he sharply criticized the government’s handling of the nation’s finances, which he claimed had exacerbated the economic challenges facing ordinary citizens.
During the debate in the House of Commons, Starmer took aim at the Tories’ policies, accusing them of reckless decision-making that had led to soaring living costs and stunted growth. “Under your watch, inflation is rising, wages are stagnating, and families are struggling,” Starmer said, directing his ire at the government. “You are the economic vandals who have robbed this country of its future.”
Starmer’s remarks were a direct response to the government’s economic record, which has been under increasing scrutiny as the U.K. faces a cost-of-living crisis. With rising energy prices, food inflation, and an uncertain economic outlook, the Labour leader argued that the Tories’ approach to economic policy had failed to protect the most vulnerable in society.
Rishi Sunak, who responded to Starmer’s allegations, defended the government’s actions, pointing to recent measures aimed at tackling inflation and supporting businesses. Sunak emphasized that the Conservatives were working to steer the U.K. economy through turbulent times, but acknowledged that challenges remained.
However, Starmer’s harsh words struck a chord with many opposition MPs, who have long criticized the Conservative Party’s economic management since the pandemic and the subsequent economic fallout. The Labour leader’s characterisation of the Tories as “economic vandals” has resonated with growing frustration among voters, especially in the face of mounting living costs.
As the debate continues, both parties are bracing for a tough battle ahead. With the next general election on the horizon, economic policy will undoubtedly remain at the center of political discourse in the coming months, and Starmer’s latest attack has put the Conservative government on the defensive.