As the Labour party leader, Starmer's initial pledge to "defend free movement as we leave the EU" was a cornerstone of his campaign. This promise resonated with many who believed in the benefits of free movement for economic, social, and cultural reasons.

However, by 2022, Starmer had made a dramatic U-turn on this, ruling out the return of free movement for EU citizens. This shift wasn't just a minor adjustment in policy but a fundamental departure from one of his key pledges. In an interview with the Mail on Sunday, Starmer emphasized that freedom of movement was a "red line" he would not cross, citing the impracticality of a Swiss-style deal for Britain. His rationale? Maintaining the integrity of the Brexit deal made by the Conservative party.

This stance might seem pragmatic in the context of ongoing negotiations, but it raises significant questions about political integrity and the trustworthiness of campaign promises. Starmer's abandonment of his pledge is not just a policy shift; it's a betrayal of the principles he once stood for. By choosing to align with the Conservative framework, Starmer has not only alienated a segment of his supporters but has also muddled the Labour Party's position on Brexit, making it difficult for voters to distinguish between the two major parties on this crucial issue.

SOURCES

1st Video: Keir Starmer's X account - https://x.com/Keir_Starmer/status/1223296795368984583

2nd Video: Keir Starmer on the Andrew Marr Show - 10th Jan 2021 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rqa1RENaLYg

3. Sir Keir Starmer insists he won't derail Brexit as he rules out a Switzerland-style deal - https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-11473087/Sir-Keir-Starmer-insists-wont-derail-Brexit-rules-Switzerland-style-deal.html

4. Keir Starmer’s Ten Pledges - https://www.clpd.org.uk/resource/keir-starmer-10-pledges/