The Courier Column - Son of a toolmaker: who is Keir Starmer and why do we still not know?

During the run up to the election, Keir Starmer’s repeated claim of his father being a toolmaker became an inside joke within the political class. By July 4th, it had become synonymous with his negative attributes; lacking compelling ideas, static, and boring. Does this fact and its persistent use highlight a deeper issue for the PM and his government?

Since July, Starmer has been plagued by misconduct and mismanagement of political gaffes. Focus on the salary of Sue Gray and resignation of Rosie Duffield has suffocated conversation about policy. And there is almost a parental disappointment around Starmer’s acceptance of football boxes, luxury clothing, and Taylor Swift tickets. Arguably this disillusionment is of Starmer’s own making. Having put values at the heart of his political identity, he created an unachievable standard, which has caught him out on some insignificant blunders. The chaos of scandal which has engulfed Starmer is a far cry from a government of service and morality. Setting out such righteous values for government, and failing to uphold them, sheds a light on Starmer’s naivety as a politician.

Simultaneously, Starmer has also failed to present a bold, overarching vision of what Britain is and where he is taking us. Constant focus on the failings of the previous government, without creating his own political narrative is forcing us to ask ourselves; who is Keir Starmer and what does his government stand for?

Starmer is wading through the weeds of politics. He is stumbling on both the minute details of political life, whilst also lacking big picture ideas. Therefore, his first few months in office haven’t given us a clear indication as to who he is and what he stands for.

If Starmer really wants to be seen as more than a son of a toolmaker, he needs to make better use of his materials.