Articles from major UK newspapers (e.g., The Times, The Guardian, The Telegraph)

UK Election: Starmer's Plan to Reserve Friday Evenings for Family Sparks Controversy

Jul 1, 2024, 09:05 PM

The UK general election has sparked controversy over Labour leader Keir Starmer's remarks about his work schedule if he becomes Prime Minister. Starmer stated he aims to reserve Friday evenings for family time, which has been misinterpreted by some Conservatives as him intending to work a four-day week. Conservative Health Minister Maria Caulfield falsely claimed Starmer would work a four-day week. Starmer clarified that he only seeks to protect Friday evenings for family, a practice he has maintained for years, partly due to his family's Jewish faith. The debate has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising Starmer's commitment to work-life balance, while others criticize the feasibility of such a schedule for a Prime Minister. Notably, former Prime Ministers David Cameron and Nick Clegg also prioritized family time, and Rishi Sunak previously praised Starmer's work-life balance. Jonathan Reynolds expressed support for Starmer's stance, emphasizing the importance of family time.