Keir Starmer criticizes Reform’s latest by-election contender and emphasizes that only the Labour Party can counter the negative impact of divisive politics in Gorton and Denton. The newly announced candidate for Reform, Matthew Goodwin, previously known for his extreme views on British nationality and Islam, has sparked controversy by not disavowing his statement regarding the Britishness of UK-born individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds.

Reform’s strong push to secure a win in Greater Manchester is met with opposition from the Greens, positioning themselves as the party to thwart Reform’s influence in the upcoming by-election. Prime Minister, while en route to China, highlighted the pivotal role of the Labour Party in combating Reform’s divisive politics, focusing on core values such as cost of living concerns and unity over division.

The impending by-election holds significant importance for Keir Starmer, facing internal dissent following the exclusion of Andy Burnham from the race. The decision to prevent Burnham, the current Greater Manchester Mayor, from running was justified by the associated costs and timing amidst upcoming national elections. Starmer expressed confidence in retaining Manchester but stressed the strategic allocation of resources for essential elections.

Addressing speculations of a rift with Burnham, seen as a potential leadership contender, the Prime Minister extended praise for Burnham’s current role and left the door open for his return to parliamentary duties post-mayoral term completion. The upcoming by-election stands as a defining moment for the parties involved, with Labour and Reform at the forefront of political discourse.