'We Need To Get A Grip': Labour MP Warns Downing Street To Up Their Game
A Labour MP has urged the government to “get a grip” as anger mounts over Keir Starmer’s performance as prime minister.
Karl Turner hit out after a cabinet minister told HuffPost UK that plotting Labour MPs need to throw their weight behind the PM.
Housing secretary Steve Reed said: “The British people will never forgive us if we fall inwards on each other rather than focusing on the crisis that is facing them out there on the streets.”
Responding to the minister’s comments, Turner, the MP for East Hull, hit out at the government’s controversial plan to scrap most jury trials so they are heard by a judge instead.
He said: “We need to get a grip fast. And stop being marched up hills only to be marched back down again.
“This jury stuff is a classic example. It won’t work, it’s unjust and unpopular but unless the PM gets a grip fast we will be U-turning in the new year.”
We need to get a grip fast. And stop being marched up hills only to be marched back down again. This jury stuff is a classic example @SteveReedMP it won’t work, it’s unjust and unpopular but unless the PM gets a grip fast we will be U-turning in the new year. I support the PM.1/2 https://t.co/xVEUXKhMTA
— Karl Turner MP (@KarlTurnerMP) December 24, 2025
In a direct message to Reed, Turner added: “I absolutely support Keir Starmer, did from the very outset and still do now.
“But it isn’t good enough to lecture MPs about this or that when we need and expect the cabinet, you included, to actually open your ears and listen.
“Do not take the [Parliamentary Labour Party] for granted. I haven’t ever voted against the whip in 15 years. And I’ve been in long before yourself or Keir.
“I am elected to represent my constituents and speak truth to power especially when my own government is making a fundamental mistake on policy.”