Keir Starmer has responded to Donald Trump’s negative remarks about London, emphasizing that the city’s image does not align with reality. Speaking at the Global Progress Action summit, Starmer refuted Trump’s claims that London is descending into anarchy or shifting towards sharia law. He also addressed previous comments by Nigel Farage suggesting safety concerns in the West End.
Starmer welcomed international delegates to London, inviting them to enjoy the city’s offerings such as breakfast outings, pub visits, and relaxing in its parks. He highlighted the discrepancy between the portrayed negative narratives about cities and the actual vibrant reality experienced by visitors.
Trump’s recent criticism at the UN general assembly, labeling London’s mayor as “terrible” and falsely stating a rise in crime and a push towards sharia law, was denounced by Starmer. The ongoing feud between Trump and Mayor Sadiq Khan, with accusations of racism and Islamophobia, was also addressed.
Starmer criticized the spreading of fear through misrepresentations of the city, particularly highlighting fear tactics employed by Farage. He condemned the promotion of a “violent struggle for the nation” narrative, citing recent events organized by Tommy Robinson as examples of divisive rhetoric.
In his speech, Starmer warned against poisonous beliefs that sow division between elites and the public, stressing the danger of such strategies. He underscored the importance of countering fear-mongering narratives that aim to intimidate and divide communities.