Starmer Campaigns on UK Security Ahead of Key Debate With Sunak

Labour leader reiterates party’s commitment to nuclear defense
Seeks advantage as Tories struggle against Reform UK threat

Keir Starmer’s Labour Party has extended its poll lead ahead of the UK election on July 4.Photographer: Peter Nicholls/Getty Images

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Stuart Biggs

June 2, 2024 at 9:30 PM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

Keir Starmer will pitch Labour as the “party of national security” in a bid to squeeze Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives on traditional Tory turf as the rivals prepare to face off in a UK election debate on Tuesday.

During a campaign meeting with veterans in northwest England on Monday, Starmer will reiterate Labour’s commitment to defense via what he calls the “nuclear deterrent triple lock.” In a statement, Labour said 14 ex-military personnel have been chosen to stand as candidates in the July 4 election.