Keir Starmer Takes Over As UK's 58th Prime Minister: 'Have No Doubt That We Will Rebuild Britain'

Keir Starmer became Britain's 58th Prime Minister after Labour's landslide victory. In his Downing Street speech, he emphasised unity, service, and "national renewal."

UK PM Keir Starmer on Friday made his maiden speech from Downing Street as Britain's 58th Prime Minister. (Photo: X/@Keir_Starmer)

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Keir Starmer on Friday officially took over as Britain's 58th Prime Minister following a resounding victory in the general elections. In his first speech outside 10, Downing Street, he emphasised unity, service, and the promise of a "national renewal." Starmer stressed the significance of public service and the transformative power of politics. "Whether you voted Labour or not—in fact, especially if you did not—I say to you directly, my government will serve you," Starmer declared. "Politics can be a force for good. We will show that," he remarked, as quoted by the BBC.

After meeting King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, Starmer, accompanied by his wife Victoria, expressed his gratitude to the outgoing prime minister Rishi Sunak. Acknowledging Sunak's historic achievement as the first British Asian Prime Minister, Starmer noted, "His achievement should not be underestimated by anyone."

The Labour leader highlighted the need for a "reset," pointing to the nation's strength in navigating challenges and calling for politicians to steer the country towards "calmer waters." Addressing the economic insecurity faced by millions, Starmer pledged, "I want to say very clearly to those people – not this time."

Live from Downing Street: Watch my first speech as Prime Minister https://t.co/t2fQjytLBH

— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 5, 2024

"...Have no doubt that work of change begins immediately, have no doubt that we will rebuild Britain...," he remarked.

#WATCH | "...Have no doubt that work of change begins immediately, have no doubt that we will rebuild Britain...," says Keir Starmer as he delivers his first speech as UK Prime Minister outside 10, Downing Street.

(Source: Reuters) pic.twitter.com/WBiIiNP5Lu

— ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2024

Starmer underscored the gradual nature of national transformation, acknowledging the world's volatility. "Changing a country is not like flicking a switch," he stated, committing that 'change begins immediately'. His plans include wealth creation, revitalising the NHS, securing borders, and rebuilding the nation's "infrastructure of opportunity", the BBC reported.

"Brick by brick," Starmer vowed to create affordable homes and robust educational systems, crucial for working-class families. He assured the public that his government would operate "unburdened by doctrine" and focus on practical solutions.

Starmer promised to "rebuild" the country's "infrastructure of opportunity... brick by brick".

UK PM Keir Starmer Says Mandate For Labour Party Comes With 'Great Responsibility'

Emphasising unity, Starmer concluded, "The four nations of the UK are standing together again facing down, as we have in the past, the challenges of an insecure world." Inviting all citizens to join in this mission, he called for a collective effort in "calm and patient rebuilding" of the nation.

As Starmer stepped into 10 Downing Street, he reaffirmed his government's commitment to urgent action, saying, "Our work is urgent, and we begin it today." His closing remarks resonated with a promise of respect, humility, and an inclusive approach to governance.

With Labour securing over 200 additional seats in a landmark election, Starmer's leadership marks a significant departure from the Conservative Party's recent tenure, which saw its worst defeat in history. The mandate, he said, comes with "a great responsibility" to renew the ideas that bind the country together.

"Our task is nothing less than renewing the ideas that hold this country together. National renewal. Whoever you are, wherever you start in life, if you work hard, if you play by the rules, this country should give you a fair chance to get on," Starmer proclaimed, as quoted by BBC. "It should always respect your contribution, and we have to restore that."