Keir Starmer’s fondness for union jacks doesn’t make him a nationalist, Labour frontbencher says

A Labour frontbencher has mentioned Keir Starmer’s fondness for showing alongside British flags doesn’t make him a “nationalist”.

Quizzed on the opposition chief’s obvious penchant for the Union Flag Jo Stevens mentioned she didn’t like nationalism.

However pushed throughout the BBC Wales interview she mentioned she believed her celebration chief was in truth a “patriot” somewhat than a nationalist.

Insisting there was a distinction she mentioned nationalism was “insular” however patriotism regarded “outwards” – although she didn’t clarify how this was the case.

Sir Keir has made notable push to look alongside the union flag after strategists employed by Labour mentioned he ought to concentrate on “the flag, veterans, and dressing well”.

In an interview with BBC Wales Ms Stevens, the shadow Wales Secretary mentioned:

“I’m a believer in the UK. I’m a unionist. I don’t like nationalism. I don’t assume it’s good. I fear about it. I’ve seen it throughout Europe. I see what it does.

However presenter James Williams replied: “You say that you simply don’t like nationalism there however folks would say look, what’s the distinction between British and Welsh nationalism?

“Keir Starmer received’t go wherever lately with no Union Jack behind him. That’s British nationalism isn’t it? What’s the distinction?”

Ms Stevens, the shadow welsh secretary an MP for Cardiff Central mentioned: “I don’t assume it’s. I imply Keir [is a] patriot, in the best way that every one of us…”

Interjecting, Mr Williams requested her to clarify why “one is being nationalistic and that’s a foul factor, however one’s being patriotic”.

Ms Stevens replied: “As a result of I believe for me nationalism is insular, it’s wanting inwards, it’s shielding away from the remainder of the world somewhat than wanting outwards.”

Labour has pulled forward within the polls in latest months after lagging behind the Conservatives, amid an outcry over governemnt partying throughout lockdown.

Sir Keir has put British nationwide symbols on the coronary heart of his marketing campaign and repeatedly careworn that he’s “patriotic”.

However he has additionally deserted pledges corresponding to a restoration of free motion or main revisions to the federal government’s Brexit deal to deliver it nearer to its neighbours.