Miatta Fahnbulleh, the devolution, faith and communities minister, has launched a scathing attack on Nigel Farage and Reform UK, accusing the party leader of engaging in dog-whistle racism by targeting Turkish barber shops as part of his political strategy. In a recent interview, Fahnbulleh condemned Reform's approach, stating that it focuses on blaming people of difference rather than addressing the fundamental issues plaguing Britain's struggling high streets.
Reform's 'Politics of Grievance' Under Fire
Fahnbulleh argued that Reform UK is capitalising on the decline of town centres by deploying what she termed the politics of grievance. She emphasised that while there is widespread agreement on the failures of the last government over the past 15 years, Reform lacks credible answers to revitalise high streets. Instead, she said, the party turns to divisive tactics that scapegoat minority groups, such as Turkish barbers, without offering substantive policy solutions.
High Street Decline and Far-Right Sympathies
Research indicates that Reform UK has gained increased support in English towns with the highest rates of shop closures and long-term vacancies, highlighting a correlation between economic decline and far-right sympathies. The party has made crumbling high streets a key issue, promising to declare a national high street emergency and crack down on illicit shops. However, Fahnbulleh pointed out that their focus on Turkish barbers—claiming many are fronts for money laundering and drug running—is racially charged and misses the real problems.
Figures from the Local Data Company show that the number of barber shops has more than doubled in the last decade to 3.1 per 10,000 people, even as other types of shops have closed. Farage's comments in a Facebook video, where he alleged these shops only take cash and don't cut hair, have been criticised as inflammatory and lacking evidence.
Labour's Response and Policy Initiatives
In contrast, Fahnbulleh outlined Labour's efforts to address high street decline, including a £5bn pride in place strategy that funds 250 regeneration projects over the next decade. This initiative features a community right-to-buy scheme and licensing powers for councils to limit gambling shops. She acknowledged voter frustration with boarded-up shops and years of neglect, stressing that Labour is determined to deliver change and restore faith in politics.
Criticism of Reform's Governance
Fahnbulleh also criticised Reform's chaotic leadership in local councils it controls, noting a lack of clear vision and basic governing skills. She asserted that the country cannot afford politicians without a plan, underscoring the urgency for effective solutions. Despite challenges, such as tax increases and minimum wage rises in the autumn budget, she defended Labour's approach as necessary for investing in public services and stimulating the economy.
The government has announced measures to combat high street crime, including raids on car washes, nail bars, and barber shops. However, retail and hospitality leaders have expressed concerns that Labour's policies may add to the pressures facing high streets. Fahnbulleh denied underestimating these challenges, emphasising the need for balanced decision-making to support economic growth and public services.
Reform UK was approached for comment but did not respond. This ongoing debate highlights the deep political divisions over how to revive Britain's high streets and the ethical implications of targeting specific communities in the process.
