Stephen Flynn criticises Starmer’s Labour for downing tools

Published: 05 December 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Stephen Flynn, leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP) in the House of Commons, has criticised Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour Party, claiming it has “downed tools” during what he described as a period of national crisis. Speaking to reporters, Flynn argued that Labour has failed to hold the government to account on pressing issues, leaving the opposition’s role in Parliament largely absent at a time when voters expect active scrutiny.

The SNP leader’s remarks come amid growing public concern over inflation, energy costs, and ongoing challenges in public services. Flynn asserted that the Labour Party’s perceived inaction has contributed to a political vacuum, undermining confidence in opposition politics and leaving constituents without a strong voice in Westminster.

“Labour under Starmer has, for too long, been absent from key debates and discussions,” Flynn said. “In moments of crisis, when people are facing real hardships, the opposition should be proactive, holding the government to account and presenting solutions. Instead, Labour has downed tools and retreated from its responsibilities.”

While Flynn’s comments focus on Westminster politics, they also reflect broader tensions within the UK political landscape, where questions over leadership, party discipline, and the effectiveness of opposition parties continue to dominate discourse. Observers note that the Labour Party has faced internal scrutiny over strategy and messaging, with some MPs questioning whether the party is engaging fully with pressing national concerns.

Labour sources responded by highlighting the party’s recent initiatives on housing, healthcare, and economic reform, insisting that it remains committed to robust parliamentary oversight and policy development. A spokesperson for Starmer stated: “Labour is actively working on policies to improve people’s lives and holding the government accountable. Claims that the party has ‘downed tools’ are misleading and ignore the significant work our MPs continue to undertake every day.”

The criticism also comes ahead of key parliamentary debates on public sector pay and energy regulation, where Labour’s role in shaping legislation and questioning government ministers is expected to be closely scrutinised by media and constituents alike.

Political analysts suggest Flynn’s intervention may be an attempt to emphasise the SNP’s contrast with Labour in Scotland and across the UK, positioning his party as a more assertive voice in times of national challenge. It underscores the continuing struggle of opposition parties to demonstrate effectiveness, particularly in an era of heightened public scrutiny and media attention.

As the UK faces ongoing economic and social pressures, the debate over the role of opposition parties remains central to democratic accountability. Flynn’s criticism of Starmer’s Labour adds to the narrative of concern regarding whether traditional party politics is adequately addressing the challenges facing ordinary citizens.

For voters, the remarks from the SNP leader are likely to fuel discussion over the effectiveness of parliamentary representation and the responsibility of major parties to actively engage during crises. Whether Labour responds with renewed vigour or defends its current approach will shape perceptions as the party seeks to position itself ahead of future elections.

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