Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson delivered a sharp warning against Reform UK during his opening speech at the 2025 Labour Party Conference, describing the party's potential impact as "like Thatcher on steroids." Speaking on Sunday morning, he outlined what he sees as a significant threat to public services and community cohesion.
Key Takeaways
- Cllr Liam Robinson opened the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool on September 28, 2025.
- He directly addressed the political threat from Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage.
- Robinson described Reform UK's policies as being like "Thatcher on steroids," warning they would dismantle the NHS.
- The speech also celebrated Liverpool's economic regeneration, cultural achievements, and sporting success.
- A significant portion of his address was dedicated to the new Hillsborough Law, which led to a standing ovation.
Labour Confronts Reform UK Threat
As the Labour Party conference commenced at the Liverpool Exhibition Centre, Cllr Liam Robinson set a combative tone. His opening address directly confronted the rise of Reform UK, a party that has been gaining ground on Labour in several recent opinion polls.
Robinson, who has led the city council since 2023, framed the political challenge as a new right-wing threat that requires a firm response. He drew a direct parallel between the potential policies of Reform UK and the era of Margaret Thatcher, but suggested the consequences would be even more severe.
"Liverpool is a very proud anti-Tory city, it’s a very long time since any Conservative won any kind of election round here. But we also know there is a new right wing threat to our country and our city, and whilst the name might be different and the colour a different shade of blue, Reform and Farage would be like Thatcher on steroids dismantling our NHS and dividing our communities."
He assured the audience that Labour is prepared for this challenge, stating, "It’s a fight we are ready for and a fight we’re up for.” This statement positions the party as the primary opposition to the brand of politics championed by Nigel Farage.
Political Context
The speech comes at a time when national polls have shown Reform UK making significant gains, in some cases overtaking the Conservative Party and challenging Labour's position. Robinson's comments reflect a growing sentiment within Labour that the party must actively counter Reform's messaging to protect its traditional voter base.
Celebrating Liverpool's Revival and Success
Beyond the political warnings, Cllr Robinson's speech was a powerful endorsement of Liverpool's progress and resilience. He began by celebrating the city's recent sporting achievements, a move designed to connect with local pride and national interests.
He acknowledged Liverpool FC's Premier League title win, a major source of pride for the city. He also highlighted Everton's new state-of-the-art stadium on the waterfront and the significant move of the Everton Women's team to make Goodison Park their permanent home.
A Story of Urban Regeneration
Robinson detailed how Liverpool has rebuilt itself after what he described as 14 years of Conservative government policies. He pointed to the city's waterfront as a prime example of successful transformation.
"Our waterfront, once a symbol of decline, is now one of the UK’s great urban regeneration stories," he said. This revival is not just aesthetic but also economic, driven by a booming cultural and visitor economy.
Liverpool by the Numbers
- 60 million: The number of visitors the city welcomes annually.
- Most filmed city outside London: Liverpool frequently doubles for locations like New York, Moscow, and even Gotham City.
- Eurovision Host: The city successfully hosted the major international song contest, showcasing its ability to manage large-scale events.
He emphasized that this success supports thousands of jobs and small businesses, benefiting communities across the city, not just the central tourist areas. "This is a city that knows how to put on a show — but more importantly, knows how to make visitors feel like locals," he added.
Emotional Tribute Over Hillsborough Law
The most poignant moment of the speech came when Cllr Robinson addressed the recent passing of the Hillsborough Law. The legislation, laid in parliament by the Labour government earlier in the month, was the result of decades of tireless campaigning by the families of the 97 victims, survivors, and their supporters.
He explained the core of the new law, which establishes a legal "duty of candour." This requires public authorities and officials to be truthful and transparent. Failure to do so can now result in criminal sanctions, a key demand of the campaigners to prevent future injustices and cover-ups.
"Social justice is in the very DNA of this city," Robinson declared. "So that’s why this city expected our government, our government, to deliver the Hillsborough Law in full, and we’re really pleased that that is what our government is doing."
Acknowledging the Campaigners
Robinson made a point to thank key figures who supported the law, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer for keeping his promise, as well as Mayors Steve Rotheram and Andy Burnham. He also credited MPs Maria Eagle and Ian Byrne for their dedicated work.
However, he reserved his highest praise for the families and survivors.
"But most of all I want to thank the Hillsborough Families, survivors and campaigners for all of their fight over so many, many years. Whilst the Hillsborough Law won’t bring the 97 back, it will be a fitting legacy so that disasters like Hillsborough and the ensuing state-sponsored cover-up that happened can never happen again."
As he finished this section of his speech, the entire conference hall rose to its feet in a prolonged standing ovation, marking a moment of powerful unity and respect for the decades-long fight for justice.