The New Statesman: politics and culture Andrew Marr: Keir Starmer is failing Britain
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Oct 23, 2025 
In a thought-provoking discussion, Andrew Marr, a veteran political journalist, reflects on his misjudgment of Keir Starmer's Labour, admitting his early optimism was misplaced. He critiques both Starmer and Rishi Sunak as conservative administrators lacking the boldness to drive change. Marr discusses the rise of smaller parties like the Greens and Nigel Farage's adept media strategy, emphasizing the risk of a fragmented political landscape. He questions Starmer's capacity for radical reform, highlighting the necessity for more decisive political direction.
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Optimism Misread The Scale Of The Problem
- Andrew Marr admits he felt optimism when Labour won because giving new governments a chance is necessary.
- He now believes Labour underestimated the depth of economic and state problems they inherited.
Starmer's Incrementalism May Be Too Slow
- Marr argues Starmer's instinct is administrative conservatism, preferring gradual, conventional fixes.
- That approach risks running out of time amid visible daily failures like crime and crumbling services.
Hammer Home Controversial Policies
- Promote controversial policies relentlessly by repeatedly making the case across media and public events.
- Use every interview and appearance to ram home the policy's practical benefits.