What's happened
Labour faces a backlash over Sir Keir Starmer's Gaza stance, with pro-Palestinian activists winning local elections. A Muslim campaign group demands an apology and policy changes from Starmer. The chair of Momentum quits Labour over the issue, joining a campaign against Labour MPs. Labour's election chief admits the Gaza stance cost the party votes in the local elections.
Why it matters
Labour's stance on Gaza has led to significant backlash, with key figures within the party facing criticism and demands for change. The issue has impacted local election results and threatens to further divide the party. The fallout from this controversy could have long-lasting implications for Labour's support among certain voter demographics.
What the papers say
The Mirror highlights the unexpected impact of the 'Gaza factor' on local elections, attributing Labour's losses to Starmer's comments on Gaza. The Independent reports on the Muslim Vote group's demands for Starmer to apologize and change Labour's policies. Sky News covers the resignation of a Momentum chair over Starmer's Gaza stance, emphasizing the growing discontent within the party. The Telegraph discusses Labour's election chief acknowledging the negative impact of Starmer's approach to Gaza on the party's performance in local elections.
How we got here
Sir Keir Starmer's comments on Gaza, particularly his refusal to back an immediate ceasefire and his 'humanitarian pause' stance, have sparked controversy within Labour and among voters. The Muslim community, in particular, has expressed dissatisfaction with Labour's response to the conflict. The issue has led to divisions within the party and a shift in support towards pro-Palestinian candidates and independent groups.
Common question
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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The Labour Party is a centre-left political party in the United Kingdom that has been described as an alliance of social democrats, democratic socialists and trade unionists.
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