“We have to go into the next election making choices where we have to say we’re going to do X because we can afford it, but we may not be able to do Y and be open and transparent about it. I don’t think anyone would say that nothing has happened in the last two years that has changed our finances.” Asked if this meant his 10 leadership promises were now dead, he replied: “Yes. The financial situation has changed, the debt situation has changed.” Despite his remarks, the 10 pledges remain on his website, which he says are “based on the moral premise of socialism” and vows to “maintain our radical values”. Matt Zarb-Cousins, a former spokesman for Corbyn, said: “If Starmer had been honest about his intentions, or if there had been any ambiguity, he would not have won the leadership. “That’s why he felt the need to publish the 10 pledges and put them up front on his website and a mass mailing to all members that would cost tens of thousands.” Sir Keir acknowledged the move could anger those on the Left of the party, adding that “saying no” to your own side “is the hardest thing” to do in politics. But he attacked the economic policies of the two Tory leadership hopefuls, insisting Labor would not impose further taxes on struggling families.
