Rachel Reeves (Labour) faced an unexpected interruption during her speech at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool. A pro-Palestinian activist in the audience began shouting about the "mass starvation of Palestinians" whilst the Chancellor was outlining measures to protect key British industries.
The Chancellor initially addressed the heckler directly, defending Labour's approach to Palestinian recognition. She acknowledged the activist's concerns before attempting to redirect the focus back to Labour's governmental responsibilities.
Government versus protest
Reeves used the interruption to emphasise Labour's transition from opposition to power. "We understand your cause and we are recognising a Palestinian state," she told the heckler. "But we are now a party in Government, not a party of protest."
The Chancellor then highlighted several policy achievements to demonstrate Labour's impact in government. "And I'm proud to stand here as your Chancellor, the Chancellor that has increased the minimum wage, the Chancellor that is introducing free breakfast clubs and free school meals, a Chancellor that has overseen five cuts to interest rates," she continued.
Conference response
Reeves concluded her response by reinforcing Labour's transformation under her leadership. "That's the difference we make, and that is the difference we make in power, not through protest. Our party has changed, and that is why I am standing here, proud to be your Chancellor of the Exchequer."
The conference delegates responded positively to her handling of the situation, with applause following her remarks in the conference hall.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
