Michael Gove brands Keir Starmer a 'windsock'

Michael Gove brands Keir Starmer a ‘windsock’ after the Labour leader backtracked on planning reforms for house-building

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Michael Gove has branded Keir Starmer a ‘windsock’ for changing his mind on reforms that would have boosted house-building.

Labour’s leader vowed earlier this year that he would take the side of the ‘builders not the blockers’, pledging to tear up planning rules to increase home ownership.

And when ministers unveiled a proposal last month to scrap strict environmental rules blamed for blocking 100,000 homes, the Opposition indicated it would support it.

But last week Labour peers in the House of Lords helped defeat the Government in a crucial vote on restrictions protecting waterways.

Mr Gove, the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, said that Sir Keir’s change of heart told voters ‘all you need to know’ about his character.

Michael Gove has branded Keir Starmer (pictured) a ‘windsock’ for changing his mind on reforms that would have boosted house-building

Mr Gove (pictured), the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, said that Sir Keir’s change of heart told voters ‘all you need to know’ about his character

He told the Sunday Telegraph: ‘We designed a new approach, which would unlock 100,000 homes and deliver millions of pounds of new investment to restore habitats … clean up wastewater and improve farming practices.

‘Keir Starmer’s rhetoric would have led anyone who placed weight on his words to assume he would be supportive … but then pressure groups began to agitate against our plan.

‘He is a windsock politician first and a solid statesman never. As the tens of thousands denied a new home by his actions now know.’

Matthew Pennycook, Labour’s housing spokesman, insisted: ‘Michael Gove’s reckless proposal was defeated by a combination of peers from all parties, including those on the Conservative benches.

‘The Government should reflect and embrace Labour’s sensible solution that would unlock these desperately needed homes.’

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