In 2020, Keir Starmer captured the hopes of many Labour supporters with a bold pledge to nationalise key public services, including rail, mail, energy, and water. This promise resonated with those who believed in reversing decades of privatization.

But just by September 2021, Starmer had explicitly ruled out nationalising the big six energy companies, a stark departure from his initial stance. The final nail in the coffin came in July 2022 when his Shadow Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, declared that Labour had abandoned its nationalisation plans altogether. Now fast forward to 2024, and it appears that Labour is once again considering the nationalisation of energy and rail services, while still steering clear of mail and water.

This constant flip-flopping between pledges and policies creates a perplexing narrative that erodes public confidence. How can the electorate trust a leader or a party that oscillates so dramatically on such crucial issues?

This continuous opting in and out of pledges seems to be more than just a strategic shift; it is a fundamental problem. A leader’s consistency and clarity are vital for maintaining trust and credibility. Starmer’s vacillation on nationalisation sends mixed signals to both supporters and critics, leaving the electorate confused and skeptical.

SOURCES

1st Video: Keir Starmer on the Andrew Neil Show - 4/3/20 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SWIfkPw_R4

2nd Video: Labour conference interview: Keir Starmer with Laura Kuenssberg - https://www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-politics-58724860

3. Labour Will Not Promise To Nationalise Water, Energy Or Rail, Says Rachel Reeves https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/labour-will-not-nationalise-water-energy-or-rail-says-rachel-reeves_uk_62de4d15e4b0aad58d1c8b98

4. Labour MPs urge Keir Starmer to commit to nationalising water firms - https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2023/jun/30/labour-mps-urge-keir-starmer-to-commit-to-nationalising-thames-water