Archive · 19 Jan 2026
Keir Starmer's Major U-Turns Since Taking Power
Keir Starmer, the UK's prime minister, has made several big changes to his government's plans since taking office.
First, they dropped a plan to make everyone use a special digital ID card to prove they can work in the UK.
They also decided to give winter fuel payments to more pensioners after many people complained.
The government also increased a tax called national insurance for employers, which some people said was a promise they broke.
They had to change plans to cut benefits because many people in their own party disagreed.
After a long time, they started a big investigation into a serious issue called grooming gangs.
Finally, they decided to make it easier for workers to fight unfair treatment, but not as quickly as they first promised.
These changes show that sometimes, even when leaders have big plans, they have to change them because of different reasons.
Labour government dropped mandatory digital ID scheme for workers, allowing alternative digital IDs.
Restored winter fuel payments to pensioners earning £35,000 or less after public backlash.
Increased employer national insurance contributions from 13.8% to 15%, despite pre-election promises.
Scaled back welfare reform plans due to significant opposition from Labour MPs and campaign groups.
Launched a national inquiry into grooming gangs after months of resistance and public pressure.
- Who
- Keir Starmer and the Labour government
- What
- Multiple policy reversals on various issues
- When
- Since the 2024 election and throughout 2025
- Where
- United Kingdom
- Why
- Due to public pressure, political opposition, and practical challenges
- Digital ID Scheme
- Dropped mandatory requirement, allowing alternative digital IDs
- Winter Fuel Payments
- Restored for pensioners earning £35,000 or less
- National Insurance
- Increased employer contributions from 13.8% to 15%
- Welfare Reform
- Scaled back plans after significant opposition
- Grooming Gangs Inquiry
- Launched national inquiry after months of resistance
- Workers' Rights
- Reduced unfair dismissal qualifying period to six months instead of day one