Labour peer Peter Mandelson's comments suggesting that Labour Leader Keir Starmer could improve his chances of winning the next election by losing weight have sparked a series of reactions across the political spectrum. Mandelson's remarks, which were interpreted as 'fat-shaming', were criticized by Wes Streeting, who remarked, 'People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones...', highlighting the inappropriateness of such comments, especially coming from someone within the same party. The controversy also drew responses from other Labour figures, including Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Darren Jones, who defended Starmer's fitness and readiness for the upcoming general election, stating, 'He's fit, he’s fighting for the country'. The incident has been widely reported and discussed in the media, with several outlets and commentators rebuking Mandelson for his 'fat-shaming' remarks, indicating a broad rebuke of Mandelson's approach.
Lord Peter Mandelson has been accused of ‘fat-shaming’ Keir Starmer, saying he needs to “shed a few pounds” before the election. Alex Salmond: “I have so little time for people who get offended because someone else has made a commentary on them!” @JuliaHB1 | @AlexSalmond https://t.co/GKlPoG0EE6
Peter Mandelson rebuked over ‘fat shaming’ remarks at Keir Starmer https://t.co/5cj0QmOTzC
'Do you think Sir Keir Starmer has put on weight?' @darrenpjones bursts out laughing in response to @NickFerrariLBC's question off the back of Peter Mandelson's criticism of the Labour Leader. https://t.co/ncvTq5xZYS
Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Darren Jones reacts to Peter Mandelson telling Sir Keir Starmer to 'shed a few pounds' before the next election. "He's fit, he’s fighting for the country, he's ready for the general election - as we all are in the Labour Party!" https://t.co/EFyNOTXqTW
Keir Starmer 'fat-shamed' by Labour peer who told him to 'shed a few pounds' to improve chances of winning https://t.co/XACYfONlAp
'People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones...' Wes Streeting responds to Labour Peer Peter Mandelson's suggestion that if Keir Starmer were to 'lose a few pounds,' it would help Labour win the election. @AndrewMarr9 https://t.co/2sGMTHRhbh
"People in glass houses, Peter shouldn't throw stones..." @WesStreeting responds to Labour peer Peter Mandelson's suggestion that if Keir Starmer were to 'lose a few pounds,' it would help Labour win the election. @AndrewMarr9 https://t.co/SucDhUgqqw
“Keir Starmer needs to shed a few pounds and that would be an improvement.” Clothes and appearances are “not unimportant” in politics, says Peter Mandelson. 🗳️ How To Win An Election 🎧 https://t.co/WtxvdGVSj4 @Dannythefink | @PollyMackenzie | @MattChorley https://t.co/f66lVdpv2Y