Keir Starmer has been installed as Prime Minister in a crucial moment in British politics, promising to change in the wake of division and to breathe a new lease of life into the country.
King George invited Starmer to form a new government ably distinguished by a no-nonsense approach to unity and national progress.
Following a clear-cut electoral victory securing 412 seats for Labour, Starmer’s taking the seat marked a crucial step in Conservative leadership after Rishi Sunak, who has now succumbed to defeat after a loss that saw the Tories record their worst electoral defeat ever.
Addressing the nation from the steps of 10 Downing Street after accepting the king’s invitation to form a new government, Starmer positioned himself as a beacon of stability and moderation, vowing to rebuild Britain and serve all citizens, regardless of their political allegiance.
He said the election had brought the four nations of the UK together “facing down the challenges of an insecure world” in a reference to Labour’s sweeping wins in Wales and Scotland, as well as two seats for its sister party in Northern Ireland.
“Our country has voted decisively for change, national renewal, and a return to the politics of public service,” Starmer declared, reflecting on Labour’s sweeping victories across Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
“I know that, but we can make a start today with the simple acknowledgement that public service is a privilege and your government should treat every single person with respect.
“Whether you voted Labour or not, especially if you did not, I say to you directly, my government will serve you. Politics can be a force for good. We will show that. We changed the Labour Party, returned it to service and that is how we will govern.”
Starmer paid tribute to his predecessor, Rishi Sunak, for his dedication and hailed the historical achievements of becoming the first British Asian leader in the UK.
Sunak, for his part, regretted the turn of the electoral results and underlined the necessity for the Conservative Party to pull itself together and fulfil its important role in opposition.
He said, “To the country I would like to say first and foremost, I am sorry. “I have given this job my all, but you have sent a clear signal that the government of the United Kingdom must change. And yours is the only judgment that matters.
“I have heard your anger, your disappointment, and I take responsibility for this loss.”
“I’m sorry that we could not deliver what your efforts deserved. It pains me to think how many good colleagues who contributed so much to their communities and our country will now no longer sit in the House of Commons.”
He also congratulated his successor saying, “In this job, his successes will be all our successes and I wish him and his family well.
“Whatever our disagreements in this campaign he is a decent, public-spirited man who I respect. He and his family deserve the very best of our understanding as they make the huge transition to their new lives behind this door.”
With the political dynamic of the ground changing exponentially, Starmer set out his vision for the future, promising a return of trust in government and filling the country with hope.
“Politics can be a force for good. We will show that,” he said, underlining his commitment to a respectful and public service-dedicated kind of governance.
