Speech by UK Treasury chief interrupted by protesters over Gaza, climate change

'Still backing polluters, still arming Israel – we voted for change,' say protesters

Aysu Bicer |23.09.2024 - 



LIVERPOOL, United Kingdom

The UK Treasury chief faced an unexpected interruption on Monday when activists from the group Climate Resistance disrupted her keynote speech.

During the speech by Rachel Reeves, chancellor of the Exchequer, at a ruling Labour Party Conference in Liverpool, protesters stood up and unfurled a banner reading, "Still backing polluters, still arming Israel – we voted for change," in a direct challenge to Labour policies.

One of the activists shouted loudly: "We are still selling arms to Israel! I thought we voted for change, Rachel!" before being dragged out of the hall by security.

As the disruption unfolded, additional protesters were heard chanting "free Palestine" and "stop oil," pointing to environmental concerns and the UK’s continued support for Israel.

Reeves, appearing unrattled, responded firmly,: "Labour has become a party that represents working people, not a party of protest."

Sam Simons, a spokesman for the campaign group, said: "Labour promised us change – instead we’re getting more of the same.

"The same pandering to the fossil fuel industry, the same arms licenses that are fueling a genocide in Gaza, and the same austerity that sees the poorest hit hardest.”

He added: "It’s time for Labour to start putting the needs of people before the interests of profit.

"That means immediately stopping arms licenses to Israel, blocking new oil and gas, and standing up for the communities already being devastated by the climate crisis."

Labour swept into power in July, ending 14 years of Conservative Party rule.