Labour councils are divesting from defence firms in order to win back pro-Palestinian voters. Several councils, including Dudley, have voted to divest their pension funds from British defence companies, arguing that it could contribute towards peace. This move is seen as a tactic to win back Muslim and pro-Palestinian votes ahead of the local elections. However, this policy is at odds with national policy, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves plans to overhaul ethical investment rules to support the defence industry. Critics argue that these boycotts are inflaming community tensions and making the nation less safe.