Rachel Reeves faced an interruption during her speech at the Labour Party conference when a pro-Palestine protester voiced his grievances. The protester accused the government of supporting the “genocide” and “mass starvation” of Palestinians, prompting a brief pause in Reeves’ address.
In response, Reeves acknowledged the protester’s concerns and affirmed the party’s recognition of a Palestinian state. She emphasized the shift from a party of protest to a party in Government, highlighting initiatives such as raising the minimum wage, providing free breakfast clubs and school meals, and implementing interest rate cuts.
Outside the conference venue in Liverpool, demonstrators called for an end to arms sales to Israel. The protester, identified as “Sam P,” was escorted out by security after displaying a Palestinian flag and questioning the UK’s support for Israel.
The Palestine Youth Movement and London for a Free Palestine claimed responsibility for the disruption, advocating for an end to the perceived atrocities in the region. The protester was later handed over to Merseyside Police for removal from the hall.
The incident followed Keir Starmer’s announcement of the UK’s recognition of a Palestinian state due to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s failure to meet certain demands. Starmer condemned the ongoing violence and devastation in Gaza, underscoring the need for a peaceful resolution.
Reeves’ remarks received applause from the conference attendees, signaling a shift in the party’s approach to governance and activism.
