In a bold statement, Keir Starmer unequivocally called for the scrapping of Universal Credit and the establishment of a new system. He also highlighted the immediate necessity to halt the government's planned cut to Universal Credit, emphasizing the adverse effects on millions of families. His stance underscored the urgency of reforming a system perceived as unfair and inadequate.

Fast forward 2 exact years, and the narrative from within the Labour Party appears to have evolved when Jonathan Ashworth acknowledged the concept behind Universal Credit as fundamentally sound, emphasizing the need for substantial reform rather than a complete abolition. He also pointed out that the initial intent of unifying six different benefits into one system was the right direction. However, they criticized the current implementation for its complexity and inadequate support levels.

Labour’s changing stance on Universal Credit could be a strategic move and Starmer’s initial call to scrap the system might have been a way to draw attention to its flaws and rally support. Now, the focus on reform rather than total replacement might be more realistic and achievable. However, it might be also viewed as inconsistency or a lack of commitment to initial promises, which could undermine trust in Labour's pledges.

SOURCES

1st Video: Keir Starmer on the Andrew Marr Show - 10th Jan 2021 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rqa1RENaLYg

2nd Video: CSJ Keynote Speech: Jonathan Ashworth MP - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VstYvoHAaIs

3. https://www.clpd.org.uk/resource/keir-starmer-10-pledges/