Ken Loach on retirement and Keir Starmer: ‘It’s good for Labour to be seen to attack me’

Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Plan auto-renews until cancelled Try for free open image in gallery Ebla Mari and Dave Turner in Ken Loach’s ‘The Old Oak’ “What’s changed in the last few years was the political climate,” Loach says. “Put the two together, and they’re going to attack you.” In July, Labour shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves was challenged by The Guardian’s Simon Hattenstone on whether Loach’s views automatically make him antisemitic. Well, I think we might have to agree to differ.” Asked why she believed Loach to be antisemitic, Reeves said: “Look, I’m not on the bodies that make these decisions, but I think it’s right we have a zero-tolerance approach.” Further asked whether it’s right to make an accusation without supporting it, Reeves repeated: “Well, look, I’m not on the body who makes these decisions.” Loach claims Labour’s leadership targeted him as a signal to “the establishment” and voters to the right. “I like seeing enthusiasm for old things.” I’m curious to know if The Old Oak will truly be his final film, or whether he could do a reversal, like on Jimmy’s Hall?