WNAM REPORT: In his first Labour conference speech as Prime Minister, Keir Starmer urged the British public to keep faith as the government navigates difficult decisions and trade-offs, correspondent reports.
Starmer expressed his understanding of the public’s impatience for change but emphasised that tough, sometimes unpopular, choices were necessary for the country to achieve pride, wealth, and stability.
Starmer highlighted key areas where the government was taking action, such as building new prisons to uphold justice, erecting overground pylons for cheaper electricity, and creating a fair asylum system that includes accepting some asylum seekers.
During his speech, Starmer sought to distance himself from internal and external criticisms. Starmer addressed public scepticism of the government’s difficult path, explaining that these choices—including tax rises and spending cuts—were necessary to restore national renewal.
The Prime Minister’s 54-minute speech touched on issues of justice, diversity, and economic reform. Starmer condemned violent racism and thuggery, reiterating British values of respect and community. He also announced significant policy changes, including guaranteed housing for veterans, young care leavers, and victims of domestic abuse.
Starmer also confirmed the creation of GB Energy, a publicly owned energy company to be based in Aberdeen, putting to rest months of speculation.
Starmer pressed forward with his message of hope, urging the public to trust in a long-term plan for a “New Britain.” He vowed not to be distracted by detractors, reaffirming his commitment to a government of service focused on creating “a Britain that belongs to you.”
He departed the Labour conference early to attend the UN General Assembly in New York, where meetings with U.S. presidential candidates, including Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, were on the agenda.
