Jeremy Corbyn was never a friend, says Keir Starmer – despite previously calling him one

‘I haven’t spoken to him now for two-and-a-half years,’ says Labour leader

Sir Keir Starmer has denied he was ever a friend of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, despite previously describing him as one.

The Labour leader sought to distance himself from the ex-leader, after moving to ensure Mr Corbyn would not be the party’s candidate for the Islington North constituency at the next general election.

While taking questions on LBC Radio, Mr Starmer was pressed again about his relationship with Mr Corbyn – who he once described as a “colleague” and a “friend”.