Starmer criticized the Tories for lacking faith in British national identity and using divisive tactics to maintain power.

In an op-ed published before St. George's Day, Starmer expressed his pride in being English and highlighted Labour's role in celebrating, defending, and serving the values of England.

He mentioned the establishment of NATO and the NHS as prime examples.

Starmer pledged that Labour would always put the country above the party and criticized the Conservatives for prioritizing themselves over the nation.

He questioned their ability to serve anything other than themselves and accused them of damaging the economy, neglecting the military, and denigrating national institutions.

Starmer concluded that the Conservatives had lost the right to call themselves a patriotic party due to their actions.

The Conservative party has faced internal criticism towards the National Trust over their report on properties linked to colonialism and slavery.

Separately, England footballers' "taking the knee" protest against racism has been condemned by some Conservatives, including then home secretary Priti Patel, who labeled it as "gesture politics."