TUC Conference: Starmer's Reshuffle and Rise of Reform Set Gloomy Mood

There may have been sunshine glimmering on the waters of the Channel outside the annual TUC conference, but the focus for many union delegates inside was on stormy developments elsewhere.

- Richard Partington

After a tough first year in power for Labour, two big spectres dominated the meeting: disappointment with Keir Starmer's government, and the march of Nigel Farage's Reform UK.

The prime minister's unexpectedly far-reaching reshuffle had provoked union fears that Labour may temper its plan to boost workers' rights in yet another pro-growth reset.

Business leaders are sensing an opportunity: Britain's economy is weak, inflation is rising, Rachel Reeves's tax on employment in her first autumn budget has chilled the jobs market, and the prospect looms of further rises in her second act on 26 November.

For many, it was ironic that the union gathering was taking place while the London Underground was brought close to a standstill by striking RMT members. Meanwhile, Labour was entering a potentially fractious deputy leadership battle.

Businesses reckon Angela Rayner's resignation and the sacking of Justin Madders, the junior minister responsible for the workers' rights legislation, could remove obstacles; both politicians have close links to the union movement. While Peter Kyle, the new business secretary, had a warm relationship with tech bosses in his old job as the science and technology secretary.