Jacqui Smith criticized US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth for his comments on immigration during a D-day commemoration. She emphasized Labour's efforts to reduce net migration and address concerns about small boat crossings.
Key points
Jacqui Smith criticized Pete Hegseth's immigration comments
Hegseth's speech condemned across Europe
Labour reports reductions in net migration
Smith emphasizes addressing small boat crossings
Mentioned in this story
Jacqui SmithPete HegsethLabour
Jacqui Smith, the skills minister, has argued that Pete Hegseth, the US defence secretary, lacked “class” when he used a speech at a D-day commemoration service to criticise European countries over their record on immigration.
As Ashifa Kassam reports, Hegseth’s speech has been condemned across Europe and beyond.
This morning Smith, who has been doing a media round, joined the chorus. Asked on LBC if Hegseth was right, she replied:
double quotation markNo, he’s not right, and no, I think it’s a bit lacking in class to raise it at a ceremony like that.
Smith said there had been “very big reductions” in net migration under Labour and “we will continue to take action on the things that I think people are really worried about, particularly those who are coming across the Channel in small boats.”
Good morning. Two weeks today, it seems more likely than not that Andy Burnham will be taking his seat as the new MP for Makerfield. A byelection win is not certain, but the campaign is definitely going his way. Keir Starmerhas been saying he won’t just stand aside and let Burnham replace him as Labour leader, but these briefings are being received with a hefty dose of scepticism.
The unnamed minister quoted in today’s Times splash gives a more realistic guide to what is happening. They say:
double quotation markKeir has entered his legacy era. The conversations are now all, ‘What is announceable in time before Makerfield?’
The Times says that one of these legacy ‘announceables’ will be a ban on “harmful” social media (ie, not all social media) for under-16s. The PM wants to announced that before the byelection, the paper says.
Starmer is also giving a speech on technology this morning. According to the extracts briefed in advance, he will the “tech revolution must work for everyone”. He will say:
double quotation markNo one doubts the huge potential of tech to change lives. But we have to decide who that change is for. This government’s choice is clear: the tech revolution must work for everyone, not just a privileged few.
Q&A
What did Jacqui Smith say about Pete Hegseth's comments on immigration?
Jacqui Smith stated that Hegseth's remarks were lacking in class and inappropriate for the D-day commemoration.
How has Pete Hegseth's speech been received in Europe?
Hegseth's speech has faced condemnation across Europe for its criticism of European countries' immigration records.
What actions is Labour taking regarding immigration?
Labour has reported significant reductions in net migration and is committed to addressing concerns about small boat crossings.
What specific concerns did Jacqui Smith mention about immigration?
Smith highlighted worries about individuals crossing the Channel in small boats as a key issue for the public.
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We’re backing British businesses to lead the way, driving growth and investment that turns into more jobs and stronger communities. And we’re using tech to bring opportunity to every corner of the country – helping people into work, tackling inequalities, boosting skills and building a fairer future.
There was also a mini news announcement in the overnight briefing – but not one that will be remembered by anyone writing about Starmer’s legacy. He will say the Department for Work and Pensions is trialling what it calls an “AI work assistant” to help the jobless find work. No 10 says:
double quotation markThe tool will provide a 24/7 resource for people, offering guidance on topics such as career development, job searching and applications. The trial will last for around three months, to gather data and feedback on how people are using the service so that it can be adapted and improved as necessary.
You can access the tool here, although you will need a GOV.UK login.
There may be other news in the speech too.
Here is the agenda for the day.
Morning:Keir Starmer is giving a speech on technology and AI.
10am: Daisy Cooper, the Lib Dem Treasury spokesperson and deputy leader, holds a press conference on tackling energy bills.
Morning: Kemi Badenoch is on a visit in London where she will be speaking to the media.
11.30am: Downing Street holds a lobby briefing.
1pm: Zack Polanski, the Green party leader, speaks at the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers union conference.
1.15pm: Liz Kendall, the technology secretary, gives a speech at the AI adoption summit.
2.30pm: Shabana Mahmood, the home secretary, takes questions in the Commons.
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