Keir Starmer has publicly expressed regret for using the phrase "island of strangers" in his May 2025 immigration speech.
In an interview with Tom Baldwin, Starmer said, “I wouldn’t have used those words if I had known they were, or even would be interpreted as an echo of Powell."
Keir Starmer went on to say he was “not in the best state” due to the arson attack and should have reviewed the speech more carefully. The arson comment is in relation to a fire being reported at Keir Starmer's family home in north London. It is understood the fire started in the early hours of May 12th, 2025.
Following Keir Starmer's "regret" he probably owes Liz Saville Roberts MP an apology.
In May Ms Roberts asked Mr Starmer in the House of Commons:
This prime minister once spoke of compassion and dignity for migrants and for defending free movement. Now he talks of islands of strangers and taking back control. Somebody here has to call this out, Mister Speaker. It seems the only principle he consistently defends is whichever he last heard in a focus group.
So I ask him, is there any belief he holds which survives a week in Downing Street?
-- Liz Saville Roberts MP
Keir Starmer replied:
Yes, the belief that she talks rubbish.
-- Keir Starmer
