UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Transport Secretary Louise Haigh for her call to boycott P&O Ferries, stating that this view does not reflect government policy. Haigh's remarks, coming before an important investment summit, have led to concerns about the company's attendance and spurred criticisms about Labour's business understanding. Despite this, Starmer emphasized growing business confidence in the UK's economy as the summit approaches.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer publicly criticized Transport Secretary Louise Haigh over her call to boycott P&O Ferries, labeling her stance as not reflective of the government's view.
Haigh, who had boycotted the firm since it fired hundreds of workers in 2022, called P&O Ferries 'cowboys' and recommended others do the same.
P&O's parent company, DP World, suggested it might skip an upcoming government investment summit due to Haigh's comments.
This has sparked concerns from business leaders and opposition accusations against Labour ministers of lacking business insight.
Despite the controversy, preparations for the summit continue, with Starmer highlighting increased confidence in UK investments.