Politicians weigh in on Starmer's attempted political revamp, heralding renewed disagreements

The second year of a government can often define its fate, and for Keir Starmer, the prime minister of the UK, this sentiment rings true. Starmer's government, formed in 2024, has entered a critical phase, with economic issues and contentious decisions taking centre stage.

Starmer was elected on a promise of competence, yet polling suggests the public has not been overly impressed with the results. The economy, a core pillar of phase two of Starmer's government, has faced challenges since the 2008 financial crisis, with real income growth largely stagnated.

The cost of 30-year government borrowing has climbed to levels not seen since 1998, a concerning trend for the government. To address this, Minouche Shafik, a renowned economist and academic, has been appointed as Starmer's chief economic adviser. Shafik, previously the deputy governor of the Bank of England and vice chancellor of the London School of Economics, brings a wealth of experience to the role.

However, the government is not without its internal struggles. There are concerns among Labour MPs about the impact of the India trade deal on their electoral base. Similarly, the issue of immigration, with Reform UK eating into Labour's voter base, is a source of concern. There is a division among Labour MPs about outflanking Reform on asylum, with Yvette Cooper announcing the suspension of the rights of refugees to bring family members to the UK.

The budget this autumn is expected to be a defining political moment for the next year. Starmer is acutely aware that he cannot afford another year of drift. To help steer the government through this critical period, Darren Jones has been drafted in as the new chief secretary to the prime minister.

Yet, the government is facing criticism from some Labour MPs regarding the fiscal rules. Voters start to ask the simplest question of all: what have you actually done? As Starmer signals the start of "phase two" of his government, it remains to be seen how he will navigate these challenges and deliver on his promises.

This article was reported by Shehab Khan, an award-winning presenter and political correspondent for ITV News. The ongoing anti-migrant protests in mosques around the UK, and the impact of these protests on public opinion, are issues that will undoubtedly play a role in shaping the narrative of Starmer's government in the coming months.