Starmer says he hopes for peace in the Middle East in Christmas message
Starmer has released his first Christmas message as prime minister
Sir Keir Starmer has wished for peace in the Middle East and a "better, brighter future for every person” in his first Christmas message as prime minister following a turbulent year for the UK.
Starmer said the season was a time to remember the importance of “being there for one another”, including in “the more difficult times”.
He expressed hope for “peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story” amid spiralling conflict across the region.
The message comes after a challenging first five months in office for the Labour government and against the backdrop of a flatlining economy and rising inflation.
Starmer said: “This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season.
“It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people.
“Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.”
The PM sought to strike an optimistic note following another year of political upheaval for Britain, which saw Labour win a landslide victory after a surprise election called by Rishi Sunak in the summer.
After taking office in July, the new government made a series of unpopular decisions as ministers confronted the realities of creaking public services and strained national finances.
As well as dealing with the economic inheritance, Starmer said he needed to fix a “broken society” which manifested itself in summer riots across the country after the Southport knife attack.
Starmer said: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story.
“I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings.
“So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.”
The message comes after revised official figures released on Monday indicated that the UK gross domestic product (GDP) showed no growth between July and September.
Downing Street defended the government’s record so far when asked about the data, telling reporters: “We had to take those tough decisions to lay the foundations of growth such that we can then deliver the higher living standards over this Parliament that people want to see.”
The prime minister also used his message to thank those spending Christmas serving others, including in the NHS and emergency services, the armed forces, churches and charities.
“I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas.
“Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kemi Badenoch said Christmas was a time to reflect on “all that’s happened in the year” and “support all of those people who need our assistance”.
“I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone, not just in the Conservative Party or in my constituency, but across the country,” the Tory leader said.
“For all that you have been doing in your communities, supporting each other and helping to keep all our towns, villages and places going.
“I think that Christmas is a time for us to reflect on all that’s happened in the year.
“Sometimes we have amazing years.
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“Sometimes, like when I lost my dad, we have difficult years and we’re commiserating, but we do it together.
“But it’s a time for us to support all of those people who need our assistance, who need our help, who need our support.”
She added: “And I’m looking forward to 2025.
“I wish you all the very best for the New Year and all of the exciting things to come.”
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: “This year, I’ve had the chance to spend time with some amazing young carers.
“Incredible young people who will spend this Christmas doing what they do all year round; looking after loved ones who are ill or disabled.
“Carers embody the Christmas spirit of love, selflessness and generosity.
“So I hope we can all take some time to think of them, and keep them in our hearts.
“And wish them – and everyone – a Christmas full of peace, joy and love.”
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