Ruth Woodhouse
Why are Labour seemingly so afraid to challenge the anti-migrant narrative of Reform UK, and indeed appear to be positively enabling it?
This directly speaks to the crucial issue of standards and the responsibility all politicians share to maintain honest and respectful debate.
I am deeply concerned that the migration debate has become toxic, in part because the left has underestimated how easily racism and far-right extremism can infiltrate mainstream political discourse. This complacency has led to a misguided approach, one that tolerates far-right rhetoric and, at times, repeats it while ignoring the serious risks involved. In some cases, when the repercussions of doing this become clear, some politicians have retreated from their harmful statements. However, by then the fear and division have already taken root in our communities.
We must confront the far-right’s anti-migrant narrative decisively and hold ourselves to a higher standard of political discourse – one grounded in truth, respect, and inclusivity. Giving ground to far-right discourse on migration will only strengthen the far-right and weaken our message to communities.
Lisa Burton
When can we expect to see the details and implementation of the youth mobility scheme between the UK and the European Union?
As I’m not a government minister, I don’t have the specifics of the negotiations.
However, based on several indications from the Chancellor and the Minister for Europe, it’s clear the Government is committed to advancing the scheme. This includes promising signs of working towards association to the brilliant Erasmus+ programme.
After multiple discussions with Ministers, I’m optimistic they aim to make substantial progress ahead of the next UK-EU Summit in May.
Matt Burton
What would you say to pro Europeans who feel that Labour is not going far or fast enough with resetting the UK’s relationship with the European Union?
I represent Battersea – a constituency that voted overwhelmingly to remain in the European Union and a place where thousands of Europeans live – and I fully share the frustration many feel about the ongoing challenges as result of Brexit. This includes issues around the cost of living, reduced cultural exchange, and the pressure on small businesses that my constituents experience every day.
Throughout my time as an MP, I have consistently championed a pro-European vision. Across Battersea, it’s clear just how much a closer, more constructive relationship with the EU could improve people’s lives.
That said, it’s important to remember the state of our relationship with the EU before this Government took office. Less than eighteen months ago, conversations were simply not being had and there was no sign of life between the UK and EU. Since then, we’ve seen real progress: this Government has reopened dialogue, laid the groundwork for deeper cooperation on a range of issues, and, crucially, demonstrated a genuine willingness to work with our closest neighbours to confront the world’s most pressing challenges.
I am hopeful that from this standpoint, further change will flow.
Susan Scarrott
Have lessons been learned from the Brexit referendum campaign – where there were few positive messages regarding our relationship with the EU – rather than simply reacting to the negatives that Reform is still perpetuating?
We only need to look at the outcomes of last May’s UK-EU Summit to see change here. The tone of our relationship has shifted, and we are now hearing the right messages about the value of working together.
The Government is putting forward the argument that we need our neighbours to build a safer, more stable and peaceful world. We are also pressing the value of cultural exchange for young people’s opportunities and emphasising the objective truth – that it is better for our economy and for trade to work with the EU rather than against it.
There is a renewed confidence to Government communication on EU affairs, which is very welcome given the dire state of the conversation less than six years ago.
Anon
As a former Secretary of State for Women and Equalities, what positive changes for women have you witnessed over recent years and what more needs to be done to ensure equality?
Gender-based violence remains one of the most serious challenges we face in achieving women’s safety and equality. For many in Battersea, this issue struck painfully close to home with the horrific murder of Sarah Everard in 2023.
Since then, however, we have begun to see meaningful progress. The introduction of Raneem’s Law in February marked an important step forward, bringing domestic abuse specialists into 999 control rooms for the first time. A new criminal offence for spiking will soon be created under the forthcoming Crime and Policing Bill, showing the Government is serious in its commitment to halve violence against women and girls in the next decade.
I was also buoyed by the appointment of Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson as the new Chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission. Having had the privilege of working with her and the Women’s Budget Group during my time as Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities, I know she brings a wealth of expertise, integrity, and compassion to the role – qualities that will be essential in defending and advancing women’s rights and equality.
