Keir Starmer has urged Brits to make our Second World War veterans proud as he promised a prosperous New Year for the nation.
The Prime Minister said 2025 is an opportunity for people to learn from the “greatest generation” who will be remembered on the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ day.
In a message to mark the new year Sir Keir said it is time to rediscover “the great nation that we are”.
“A nation that gets things done. No matter how hard or tough the circumstances,” he said.
“We will have time to reflect on that this year. A chance, with the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ day. To cherish the greatest victories of this country.
“And the greatest generation that achieved it.”
The anniversaries, on May 8 and August 15, will “both be wonderful moments, to come together and do that generation proud,” Sir Keir added.
Keir Starmer has listed his priorities for the year ahead (Image: Getty)
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“But that victory – and indeed the peace and the prosperity that followed all rested on that same foundation we must rebuild today.
“The security of working people.”
It has been a difficult first five months for the Prime Minister who has been dogged by freebie scandals and a furious backlash over his plans to scrap the for pensioners and slap a 20% inheritance hike on farmers and family businesses.
The economy has also begun to shrink since Labour came to power with economists warning of a recession once the measures from Rachel Reeves’ tax-raiding Budget fully kick in.
Despite the gloomy outlook Sir Keir said his policies will put more money in the pockets of families.
“The minimum wage will be raised by a record amount. Wages are up more broadly,” he said.
The Prime Minister, who is currently enjoying a family holiday in Madeira, said changes by the government have already seen the return of foreign national criminals go up by 20%.
He added: “Billions of pounds worth of new projects in clean British energy [are] making our country more secure.
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“And over £25billion invested in our NHS [is] starting to cut waiting lists in your local hospital.”
Admitting there is “much more to do”, Sir Keir insisted: “Until you can look forward and believe in the promise and the prosperity of Britain again, then this Government will fight for you.
“A fight for change that will define this year, next year and, indeed, every waking hour of this Government.
“We have a clear Plan for Change. 1.5 million new homes – restoring the dream of home ownership.
“Children starting school, ready to learn. A more secure energy system. Waiting lists cut dramatically. Immigration – reduced.
“Neighbourhood police, tackling anti-social behaviour in every community. And more cash in your pocket, wherever you live.
“That is what we will be focusing on. A year of rebuilding.
“So, wherever and however you’re celebrating tonight, on behalf of the Government, Happy New Year. Here’s to a year of changing Britain for the better.”
In response, Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride said: “ promised change, but the only thing he’s delivered is change for the worse.
“Vulnerable pensioners deprived of vital winter fuel payments, businesses and workers hit with their jobs tax, family farms facing bankruptcy, the economy flatlining and a failure to control illegal migration.
“2025 should be a year of hope and optimism, but thanks to the choices made by this Labour Government, families across the country will pay the price for Labour’s litany of broken promises.”
In her new year message, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said: “Like all of you, I am looking forward to a 2025 that is full of hope, security and prosperity.
“The Conservative Party is also going through a period of change.
“This process of renewal will be a long-term project.
“Things may be bumpy along the way, but the Party I now lead is going to do things differently.
“Watch this space.”