Starmer Condemns Reform UK's 'Shocking' Equality Act Repeal Plan as 'UnBritish'
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has launched a scathing attack on Reform UK's proposal to repeal the Equality Act, branding the plan "shocking" and fundamentally "unBritish." In a pre-recorded interview with BBC Breakfast, Starmer warned that the legislation, which has provided decades of protection for women and minorities, would be torn apart under Reform's agenda.
Core British Values Under Threat
Starmer argued that the Equality Act represents "basic values" that are integral to British identity. He emphasized that the act's principle of treating women equally to men is a hard-fought achievement that should not be discarded. "I shudder to think what women think of anyone who wants to rip up that proposition," Starmer told presenter Naga Munchetty.
The prime minister passionately defended the act's broader protections, including those based on race. He alluded to historical injustices, such as landlords excluding individuals due to their race, to underscore the act's importance. "I believe passionately that to be tolerant, compassionate, and diverse is what it is to be British," Starmer stated, adding that Reform's plan would dismantle this foundation.
Reform's Controversial Stance
Reform UK's position on the Equality Act has drawn significant criticism, particularly after party leader Nigel Farage appointed Suella Braverman as the party's spokesperson for education, skills, and equalities. Braverman, a former home secretary who defected to Reform earlier this year, has vowed to abolish her own equalities brief and repeal the Equality Act on her first day in government.
Starmer challenged Reform to defend their stance, saying, "I would genuinely like to see anyone from Reform defend the proposition that women should be treated differently." He framed the issue as a regression to "old days" when women were not afforded equal treatment.
Broader Interview Topics
In the wide-ranging discussion, Starmer also addressed other pressing matters. He urged Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to speak to authorities in the UK and US regarding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, stressing that anyone with relevant information has a duty to come forward. "One of the core principles in our system is that everybody is equal under the law, and nobody is above the law," Starmer asserted.
Additionally, the prime minister defended the government's recent U-turn on postponing local elections in 30 authorities. He explained that the decision to reinstate the elections in May was based on legal advice, ensuring adherence to democratic processes.
Implications for British Society
Starmer's comments highlight a deep ideological divide between the government and Reform UK on social issues. By framing the Equality Act as a cornerstone of British values, he positions its protection as essential for maintaining tolerance and diversity in society. The debate underscores ongoing tensions over gender equality, racial justice, and the role of legislation in safeguarding fundamental rights.
As political discourse intensifies, Starmer's forceful defense of the Equality Act signals a commitment to progressive policies, while Reform's proposals continue to spark controversy and scrutiny.
