Keir Starmer, Britain's new Prime Minister, pledged on Friday to use his overwhelming electoral majority to rebuild the country, aiming to calm the political climate after years of turmoil. Speaking outside Number 10 Downing Street, Starmer acknowledged the significant challenges ahead following his party's landslide victory, which ended 14 years of Conservative rule. He emphasized that rebuilding trust in politics would take time and require action, not just words.
"This lack of trust can only be healed by actions, not words. I know that," he said. "Whether you voted Labour or not, in fact, 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."
Starmer was warmly received, with scenes reminiscent of Tony Blair's 1997 arrival. He took time to greet aides and supporters before delivering his speech, where he acknowledged the disillusionment many Britons felt after years of Conservative scandals and chaos. He stated that the electoral rejection of the Conservatives signaled Britain's readiness for a new direction: "Because no matter how fierce the storms of history, one of the great strengths of this nation has always been our ability to navigate away to calmer waters."
Labour's overwhelming win in the 650-seat parliament led to Rishi Sunak's resignation and Starmer's formal appointment by King Charles. Starmer promised a government focused on the country rather than party ideology, emphasizing his commitment to rebuilding trust and delivering change. Labour won over 410 seats, a significant increase, while the Conservatives suffered their worst defeat, losing 250 seats and numerous senior ministers.
Sunak, acknowledging his party's failures, expressed his regret and took responsibility for the loss: "To the country I would like to say first and foremost I am sorry," he said, adding that he would remain as Conservative leader until a new one is chosen.
Despite the victory, polls indicated limited enthusiasm for Starmer or Labour. The win, achieved through Britain's first-past-the-post system and low voter turnout, came with fewer votes than in previous elections. Financial markets showed a modest positive response, but Starmer faces significant challenges, including high taxes, substantial national debt, declining living standards, and struggling public services, especially the NHS.
Starmer's government plans include scaling back some ambitious initiatives and avoiding tax increases for "working people." He promised to end the Conservative policy of sending asylum seekers to Rwanda but will face pressure to address migration issues.
His initial ministerial appointments featured familiar faces, with Rachel Reeves as finance minister, Angela Rayner as deputy prime minister, and David Lammy as foreign minister.
While the election saw a rise in support for the right-wing Reform party, overall, British voters favored Labour for change. Starmer aims to improve relations with the EU post-Brexit but ruled out rejoining. He also pledged continued support for Ukraine against Russia and maintained similar foreign policies to Sunak's.
Starmer's victory marks a dramatic turnaround for Labour, which was in crisis just three years ago. His leadership promises a new era of action and commitment to rebuilding the nation's trust and stability.