The prime minister has acknowledged Britons’ cost-of-living struggles in his Christmas message – and vowed that serving to with the problem is his “priority”.
Sir Keir Starmer additionally urged members of the general public to “each do our bit” and “reach out” to associates, kinfolk and neighbours through the festive interval.
His message comes on the finish of a troublesome 12 months for his authorities, with financial progress stuttering and Chancellor Rachel Reeves going through criticism over tax rises within the funds.
In a message recorded inside 10 Downing Avenue, Sir Keir mentioned: “I do know many throughout Britain are nonetheless combating the price of dwelling. Serving to with that’s my precedence.
“However right now of the 12 months, which celebrates love and abundance, loss or hardship can really feel much more acute.
“So name round to a neighbour. Examine in on a buddy or a relative who you haven’t heard from for some time. Attain out. It may well make an enormous distinction.
“That is what Christmas is about.”
Picture:Sir Keir Starmer delivers his Christmas message from inside Downing Avenue. Pic: Downing Avenue
The prime minister thanked NHS staff together with members of the navy and the emergency companies who shall be on obligation on Christmas Day.
“Just as so many put their feet up, some truly special people will be pulling on their uniforms and heading out to work,” he mentioned.
“Our NHS employees emergency companies and the courageous women and men of our armed forces, all enjoying their half, doing their bit to take care of the nation and to maintain us secure.
“Many volunteers shall be on the market as properly. Serving meals. Reaching out to assist these lonely or in want.
“So on behalf of the entire nation, I wish to say an enormous thanks.
“As a nation, we should raise a glass to you this Christmas. But more than that, we should each do our bit as well.”
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Sir Keir Starmer turning on the Christmas tree lights in Downing Avenue.
Conservative chief Kemi Badenoch used her Christmas message to speak about “Christian values” and thanked “everyone who has supported me during my first year as leader of the opposition”.
“It’s been the biggest challenge of my life,” she mentioned. “But it’s also been a wonderful year. I can’t wait to get back to work next year to create a better United Kingdom.”
Liberal Democrat chief Sir Ed Davey spoke in regards to the Christmas tree in London’s Trafalgar Sq. – an annual present from Norway to thank the UK for its assist through the Second World Battle – in his message.
Whereas saying the tree could “look a little underwhelming” on first look, the Liberal Democrat chief mentioned it was a reminder of “friendship and loyalty”.
He added: “It makes me take into consideration folks standing collectively in robust occasions – whether or not in opposition to the Nazis within the Forties, or proper now in Ukraine.
“And yeah, it may not be excellent, however this tree in Trafalgar Sq. makes me take into consideration households and associates looking for each other proper right here at residence.
“I can’t think of a better symbol of the Christmas spirit of generosity, love and hope. Of light in the darkness.”
