Reform UK has been at the forefront of today's news agenda after Channel 4 released footage of canvassers in Clacton using language that was racist, xenophobic, homophobic, and Islamophobic while campaigning.
During an appearance on ITV's Loose Women, Nigel Farage had the chance to comment on the allegations. He countered that "the whole thing was a set up" and suggested that the individuals involved may have been remunerated by Channel 4 or another production company to make such statements.
Rishi Sunak used an interview to convey his "hurt and anger" regarding the comments. However, he refrained from labelling Reform UK as a racist party.
Sir Keir Starmer has also condemned the Reform campaigners as "racist", though he did not extend this accusation to Nigel Farage personally. Starmer has also had to address backlash from his suggestion of Bangladesh as an alternative destination for illegal immigrants, instead of Rwanda, which drew criticism. He has since apologised for any offence caused and acknowledged the "massive contributions" of the Bangladeshi community to the UK.
Starmer's morning was occupied with a BBC radio interview, where he faced scrutiny over issues such as access to women's spaces and potential collaboration with the next US President, "whoever" that may be. Labour has also had to clarify their stance on tax-free pension withdrawals following confusion stemming from Starmer's comments that tax breaks are set to expire. Labour have also had to deny that they are planning on introducing VAT on nursery fees.
Insight of the day
Are the SNP set to face a night of the long sgian-dubhs? The FT has a big read on the troubles facing Scotland’s biggest political party and the prospects of a Labour resurrection north of the border.
Poll watch
On Day 3 of Glastonbury, a Savanta poll has revealed that Labour has a 35-point lead among those who have been to the festival. However, Labour's lead drops to 18-points among people who have never attended.
More in Common have tracked voting intention against voters’ drink of choice. On the whole, Labour are polling higher in all drink options, except with the refined palettes of the Sherry drinkers, who give the Conservatives a 28-point lead. Of note, Labour and Tories are tied at 34-points each with white wine connoisseurs.
Moment of the day
A Labour stunt has seen former Croydon Central MP Sarah Jones’ office turned into a shop branded as Rishi’s Mega Mortgages”, where “every deal will leave you worse off!”.
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