Yvette Cooper Criticizes Keir Starmer's Leadership Style

Health Secretary Yvette Cooper criticized the leadership of former Prime Minister Keir Starmer, stating that the Labour government did not do government very well during his tenure. Speaking on the Political Currency podcast, Cooper accused Starmer's office of sidelining her during the May 2025 launch of an immigration white paper, despite the Home Office conducting the majority of the preparatory work.

Cooper characterized Starmer's management approach as demanding solutions without engaging with the underlying problems, arguing that this style failed to involve people or drive the emotion required for political change. She contrasted this with the collegiate and discursive leadership of current Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

Beyond her critique of Starmer, Cooper expressed ambition to establish a national consensus on social care. She specifically advocated for the reintroduction of Sure Start-style children's centres to ensure essential services are protected from cuts by future governments.