Rachel Reeves had to momentarily halt her keynote address at the Labour Party conference due to an interruption by a pro-Palestine protester. The protester shouted about alleged atrocities against Palestinians, prompting Ms. Reeves to acknowledge their cause and affirm the party’s recognition of a Palestinian state. The incident occurred amidst demonstrations outside the conference venue in Liverpool, where calls were made for the government to cease arms sales to Israel. The disruptive individual, identified as “Sam P” and associated with Palestine Youth Movement and London for a Free Palestine, was escorted out by security.
Following the disruption, the activist highlighted concerns about British support for what was described as a genocide in Palestine and urged action to end the perceived atrocities. The protester was subsequently removed from the premises by security personnel and handed over to Merseyside Police.
This incident unfolded after Keir Starmer announced the UK’s acknowledgment of a Palestinian state in response to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failing to address certain demands. Starmer condemned the ongoing military actions in Gaza and emphasized the need to halt the devastation in the region. Ms. Reeves reiterated the party’s stance on the Palestinian cause and emphasized the government’s role in effecting change through policy decisions and governance, citing achievements under her tenure as Chancellor. Her remarks garnered applause from the conference attendees.
