Tag: Keir Starmer

Keir Starmer – 2024 Keynote Speech on the NHS

The speech made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, at the King’s Fund on 12 September 2024.

[NB, this is the redacted speech issued by 10 Downing Street with political comment removed]

As you have heard today, Lord Darzi has published his independent report on the state of our NHS.

It is an incredibly comprehensive analysis. Some of you will have seen it, there are copies available, please read it.

A raw and honest assessment. That is what we asked for.

And that is why I wanted to come here to the King’s Fund.

Home to many of our country’s leading healthcare experts.

Because your contributions are going to be vital.

As we get this precious institution back on its feet,

And build an NHS that is truly fit for the future.

And look, our starting point couldn’t be further from that goal.

Public satisfaction in the NHS has fallen…

[Please note political content redacted here.]

To an all-time low today.

Think of the impact that has on staff who are putting in so much day in day out, knowing that confidence is at an all-time low.

And that is because, as everybody in the country knows, the last government broke the NHS.

But until this morning, we didn’t know the full scale of the damage, which is laid bare in the report.

Even Lord Darzi, with all his years of experience.

Is shocked by what he discovered.

It is unforgiveable.

And people have every right to be angry.

It’s not just because the NHS is so personal to all of us.

Or because when people can’t get the care they need…

They’re off work sick, with huge costs for our economy.

It’s because some of these failings are literally life and death.

Take the waiting times in A&E…

More than 100,000 infants waited more than 6 hours last year…

And nearly a tenth of all patients are now waiting for 12 hours or more…

That’s not just a source of fear and anxiety…

It’s leading to thousands of avoidable deaths….

And that phrase avoidable deaths should always be chilling.

That’s people’s loved ones who could have been saved.

Doctors and nurses whose whole vocation is to save them…

Hampered from doing so.

It’s devastating. Heartbreaking. Infuriating…

And that’s just scratching the surface.

High-risk heart attack patients waiting too long for urgent treatment.

Cancer diagnosis patients waiting too long….

With cancer death rates higher than other countries

And when it comes to getting help for mental health …

…. 345,000 are waiting over a year.

That’s roughly the entire population of Leicester.

[Please note political content redacted here.]

Covid hit our NHS harder than healthcare systems in other countries.

The NHS delayed, cancelled, or postponed far more routine care during the pandemic than any comparable health system.

And why?

Because our NHS went into the pandemic in a much more fragile state.

Fewer doctor, fewer nurses and fewer beds than most other high income health systems

[Please note political content redacted here.]

What Lord Darzi describes as a “calamity without international precedent”.

A “scorched earth” approach to health reform, the effects of which are still felt to this day.

And at the same time, they inflicted what the report describes as:

“the most austere decade since the NHS was founded”

Crumbling buildings.

Decrepit portacabins.

Mental health patients in Victorian-era cells infested with vermin.

When we say they broke the NHS…

That’s not performative politics.

Just look at it.

The 2010s were a lost decade for our NHS.

[Please note political content redacted here.]

And it’s not just the state of our National Health Service in crisis.

It’s also the state of our national health.

We’re becoming a sicker society.

Spending more of our lives in ill-health than ten years ago.

There are 2.8 million people economically inactive because of long-term sickness.

As today’s report makes clear –

“The NHS is not contributing to national prosperity as it could.”

But perhaps Lord Darzi’s most damning finding is about the declining physical and mental health of our children.

Fewer children getting vaccinated…

While those from the most deprived backgrounds…

Are twice as likely to be obese by reception age.

And much of this is a direct result of wider social injustices..

Poor quality housing

Lower incomes,

Insecure employment.

All of it, not just damaging the health of our nation…

It’s piling up the pressures on our NHS.

That’s the report.

But look, I haven’t come here just to set out this appalling inheritance. Though it is really important that we know it and properly understand it in detail.

Getting people back to health and work would not only reduce the costs on the NHS.

It would help drive economic growth – and fund public services.

My government was elected on a mandate for change so I’m also here to talk about how together we fix it.

I feel very deeply the profound responsibility for this.

And indeed, the opportunity of this moment.

The NHS may be broken, but it’s not beaten.

As the report says, the NHS may be in a “critical condition”.

But “its vital signs are strong”.

And we need is the courage to deliver long-term reform.

Major surgery not sticking plasters.

We’ve got to face up to the challenges….

Look at our ageing society.

And the higher burden of disease.

Look, the NHS is at a fork in the road.

And we have a choice about how it should meet these rising demands.

Don’t act and leave it to die.

Raise taxes on working people.

Or reform to secure its future.

Working people can’t afford to pay more.

So it’s reform or die.

So let me be clear from the outset, what reform does not mean.

First, it does not mean abandoning those founding ideals.

Of a public service, publicly funded, free at the point of use.

That basic principle of dignity.

Inspired of course by Bevan,

That when you fall ill,

You should never have to worry about the bill.

That is as true today as when the NHS was founded 76 years ago.

And I believe that so deeply.

As some of you will know, my mum and my sister both worked for the NHS.

My wife works for the NHS.

The NHS cared for my Mum throughout what was a very

But “its vital signs are strong”.

long illness…

The NHS runs through my family like a stick of rock.

And you know, this isn’t just about emotion.

It’s about hard facts too.

The NHS is uniquely placed for the opportunities of big data and predictive and preventative medicine.

So the problem isn’t that the NHS is the wrong model.

It’s the right model.

It’s just not taking advantage of the opportunities in front of it.

And that’s what needs to change.

Second, reform does not mean just putting more money in.

Of course, even in difficult financial circumstances.

My government will always make the investments in our NHS that are needed. Always.

But we have to fix the plumbing before turning on the taps.

So hear me when I say this.

No more money without reform.

I am not prepared to see even more of your money spent

On agency staff who cost £5,000 a shift

On appointment letters, which arrive after the appointment,

Or on paying for people to be stuck in hospital

Just because they can’t get the care they need in the community.

Tonight, there will be 12,000 patients in that very position.

That’s enough to fill 28 hospitals.

So we can’t go on like this.

As Lord Darzi has said –

NHS staff are “working harder than ever”

But “productivity has fallen.”

Because patients can’t be discharged,

And clinicians are spending their time trying to find more beds.

Rather than treating more patients.

That isn’t just solved by more money – it’s solved by reform.

And third, reform does not mean trying to fix everything from Whitehall. It really doesn’t.

When Lord Darzi says the vital signs of the NHS are strong.

He’s talking about the talents and passion of our NHS workforce. That’s what he’s talking about.

The breadth and depth of clinical talent.

The extraordinary compassion and care of our NHS staff.

If we are going to build an NHS that is fit for the future…

Then I tell you, we are going to do it with our NHS staff.

And indeed, with our patients too.

We are going to change it together.

Now, that starts with the first steps,

40,000 extra appointments every week.

But we’ve got to do the hard yards of long-term reform.

So this government is working at pace

To build a Ten-Year Plan.

Something so different from anything that has gone before.

This plan will be framed around three big shifts,

Three fundamental reforms,

Which are rooted in what Lord Darzi has set out today.

First, moving from an analogue to a digital NHS.

Already we can see glimpses of the extraordinary potential of technology,

Like the world’s first ever non-invasive, knifeless surgery for Kidney cancer… Just imagine that.

Pioneered by Leeds Teaching Hospitals.

Or the precision cancer scanners…

I saw just yesterday.

Or simply for transforming how we manage a condition.

We went to Kingsmill Hospital earlier this year and met a 12-year old called Molly.

She used a smartphone to monitor her glucose levels…

Instead of being forced to repeatedly prick her fingers.

It made such a difference to her daily life and gave great reassurance to her mum who could remotely check on the settings and the findings.

We’ve got to make these opportunities available to everyone.

We’ve got to use technology to empower patients and give them much greater control over their healthcare.

Take an innovation like the NHS app.

This could be a whole digital front door to the NHS.

Appointments, self-referral, reminders for check-ups and screenings.

Patients in control of their own data,

Healthcare so much more transparent,

So you always know your options,

And the standards that you should expect.

And you know, earlier this year I went to Alder Hey Hospital. Many of you will know it, it’s a fantastic hospital, where they carry out heart surgery on infants, which is really humbling to see.

I met the parents of a two-year old who had extremely complicated heart surgery. A tiny infant, an incredible surgery.

I asked them about their child’s history and condition, how did he come to be here, what’s the story behind it,

And as they told me, I could see them welling up as they went through the history, conditions, all the background through all of that over and over again.

They really struggled to tell the story and they have to do this every single time.

Because the records weren’t held electronically.

We’ve got to have fully digital patient records.

So that crucial information is there for you.

Wherever you go in our NHS.

And while I’m on technology

We’re also going to throw the full weight of the British Government behind our world leading life sciences.

Second, we’ve got to shift more care from hospitals to communities.

Now The King’s Fund has long called for this.

Successive governments have repeatedly promised it.

But what’s happened?

The opposite.

The share of the NHS budget spent on hospitals has actuallyincreased.

Now this Ten-Year plan has to be the moment we change this.

The moment we begin to turn our National Health Service

into a Neighbourhood Health Service.

That means more tests, scans, healthcare offered on high streets and town centres.

Improved GP access.

Bringing back the family doctor.

Offering digital consultations for those who want them,

Then they told me that every time they went to a different hospital, they had to go virtual wards.

And more patients can be safely looked after in their own homes.

Where we can deal with problems early,

Before people are off work sick and before they need to go to hospital.

And we’ve got to make good on the integration of health and social care.

So we can discharge those 28 hospitals worth of patients.

Saving money.

Reducing the strain on our NHS,

And giving people better treatment.

And third in terms of the shifts, we’ve got to be much bolder in moving from sickness to prevention.

Now we’ve already announced NHS health checks in workplaces.

Blood pressure checks at dentists and opticians.

And that is just the beginning.

Planning for ten years means we can make long-term investments in new technologies

That will help catch and prevent problems earlier.

And there are some areas in particular

Where we’ve just got to be more ambitious.

Like children’s mental health.

Or children’s dentistry.

You know, one of the most shocking things that I saw, I’ve ever seen…

This was actually when I was at was at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital again.

As I mentioned earlier, I went to the ward where they do heart operations.

The single biggest cause of children going into that hospital…

Between the ages of 6 and 10…

Was to have their rotting teeth taken out. I couldn’t believe it. I was genuinely shocked.

All politicians say they are shocked too often, but I was honestly shocked, the single biggest cause of going into hospital of children between 6 and 10 is having their teeth taken out.

Can you think of anything more soul-destroying?

For those children what a price to pay.

And for that brilliant NHS team who want to use their talents to save lives.

Instead spending their time taking out rotting teeth.

Something that could be so easily prevented.

And look, I know some prevention measures will be controversial.

I’m prepared to be bold even in the face of loud opposition.

So no, some of our changes won’t be universally popular. We know that.

But I will do the right thing – for our NHS, our economy, and our children.

Now, the task before us is the work of our generation.

We’ve already hit the ground running.

Negotiating an offer to end the strikes

[Please note political content redacted here.]

Strikes that were costing us all a fortune.

And we inherited 1,000 trainee GPs who were set to graduate into unemployment…

Instead we hired them.

But only fundamental reform and a plan for the long-term can turn around the NHS and build a healthy society.

It won’t be easy, it won’t be or quick.

It will take a ten-year plan.

Not the work of just one Parliament.

But I know we can do it.

Because we’ve done reform before.

[Please note political content redacted here.]

To deliver better outcomes for patients and better value for taxpayers.

[Please note political content redacted here.]

My Government has a huge mandate for change.

We are mission-driven.

And I think the themes of this conference today are fitting for this moment.

Challenge. Change. And hope.

Because the challenge is clear before us.

The change could amount to the biggest reimagining of our NHS since its birth.

And the hope, well that’s what’s really exciting and galvanising about this moment.

Because if we get this right,

People can look back and say –

This was the generation that took the NHS from the worst crisis in its history.

Got it back on its feet and made it fit for the future.

September 13, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Speech in Berlin

The speech made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, on 28 August 2024.

Thank you.

And can I first express my sincere condolences for the shocking attack in Solingen last week.

Our country knows what it’s like to suffer such senseless and despicable acts…

And our thoughts are with all the families affected by this terrible event.

And Olaf – thank you.

It’s fantastic to be with you here in Berlin.

Not, alas…

My first visit here as Prime Minister.

Football, it turns out…

Decided to visit it’s second home in Spain, this time.

But anyway – it was still an incredible experience…

And a showcase for the fantastic hospitality of this great nation.

So thank you for hosting yet another episode in English footballing trauma! I’ve been through a lot.

Anyway – I’m delighted to be back at this moment of opportunity for our two countries.

Olaf – on every occasion we’ve met, we’ve talked about our ambitions for the future…

Our values of security, prosperity, respect…

And our shared determination to harness the power of government…

For the service of working people.

That is what we are doing today.

A new UK-Germany Treaty…

A once in a generation chance to deliver for working people…

In Britain and in Germany.

A new agreement…

A testament to the depth and potential of our relationship.

With deeper links on science, technology, development, people, businesses, culture.

A boost to our trading relations…

Germany – of course, already the UK’s second largest trading partner in the world.

And through that – a chance to create jobs here and in the UK…

And deliver that most precious of goods, for both our countries…

Economic growth.

Let me be clear – growth is the number one mission of my Government.

And what we understand, clearly…

Is that building relationships with our partners – here in Germany and across Europe…

Is vital to achieving it.

That is what our agreement today represents – the chance that we have.

We’ll also deepen cooperation on shared social challenges…

For example, on illegal migration.

Because we cannot smash the smuggling gangs who perpetrate this vile trade…

Without the help of our partners.

And I’m really glad that we had substantive discussions today about how we tackle the smuggling gangs and agreed to develop a joint action plan to tackle illegal migration.

So we will renew our commitment to the Calais Group…

Enhance our intelligence sharing on organised immigration crime.

But also – increase collaboration on tackling climate change.

An important goal for the planet, of course…

For greater energy security…

But also – for tackling the drivers of challenges like illegal migration at source.

And finally – at the heart of this Treaty…

Will be a new Defence Agreement.

An agreement that builds upon our already formidable defence co-operation…

But which expands that relationship to face the threats of a volatile world, together.

That of course means a shared resolve to stand up for the security of our people and the wider European continent.

And that begins with our unyielding support for Ukraine – we discussed that in some detail today.

Because, as Europe’s largest contributors to Ukraine’s war efforts…

And as the nations with the highest defence expenditure among European countries in NATO…

We know only too well the debt we owe to the Ukrainian people…

Who fight not just to defend themselves…

But for all the people of Europe.

So today – we reaffirmed our commitment to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

We also share a common commitment to resolve the crisis in the Middle East, and agree on:

…Israel’s right to self-defence, in compliance with International Humanitarian Law…

…the need for de-escalation across the region; and for restraint and caution to be exercised…

Unfettered humanitarian access into Gaza…

…agreement to a ceasefire and release of all hostages…

…and the importance of working together towards a political solution…

based on the creation of a Palestinian State alongside a safe and secure Israel.

The only way to provide long-term peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.

That of course – is not an easy goal.

But it is one that we are committed to pursuing, together.

Because – as today shows…

Britain can advance its interests much more effectively…

When we stand with our friends and partners.

This Treaty is part of a wider reset – grounded in a new spirit of co-operation… with our shared understanding that this will be developed at pace and that we hope to have agreed it by the end of the year.

A Britain reconnected…

Resetting our relationships…

Rediscovering our common interest…

Delivering for working people.

Britain and Germany already have an incredible relationship.

We invest billions in each other’s countries.

Thousands and thousands of jobs are supported through trade.

And every year, millions of people travel between our two countries…

Exchanging ideas…

Collaborating, creating and connecting.

But today – we build on that…

A bright new future for UK-German relations…

Two great countries – brought closer together than ever before.

The strongest strategic partners in Europe and on the world stage.

Thank you so much for hosting us here today.

September 5, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Speech on Fixing the Foundations of our Country

The speech made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, at 10 Downing Street on 27 August 2024.

Thank you so much for coming.

When I stood on the steps of Downing Street – just over there – two months ago.

I promised this government would serve people like you.

Apprentices. Teachers. Nurses. Small business owners. Firefighters.

Those serving our community and our country every day.

I promised that we would get a grip on the problems we face.

And that we would be judged by our actions, not by our words.

I said before the election – and I say it again really clearly today:

Growth.

And, frankly, by that I do mean wealth creation is the number one priority of this Labour government.

That’s why, in our first few weeks, we set up the National Wealth Fund –

because we want every person and every community to benefit.

It’s why we’ve unlocked planning decisions –

Because we are going to build 1.5 million new homes.

It’s why we’ve set up Great British Energy –

To create good jobs and cut people’s bills.

And it’s why we ended the national strikes that have crippled our country for years.

Because I defy anyone to tell me that you can grow the economy…

when people can’t get to work – because the transport system is broken.

Or can’t return to work – because they’re stuck on an NHS waiting list.

We’ve done more in seven weeks than the last Government did in seven years.

And these are just the first steps towards the change that people voted for.

The change I’m determined to deliver.

But before the election I also gave a warning.

I said change would not happen overnight.

When there is deep rot in the heart of a structure, you can’t just cover it up.

You can’t tinker with it or rely on quick fixes.

You have to overhaul the entire thing.

Tackle it at root.

Even if it’s harder work and takes more time.

Because otherwise what happens?

The rot returns.

In all the same places.

And it spreads.

Worse than before.

You know that – I know that.

That’s why this project has always been about fixing the foundations of this country.

But I have to be honest with you.

Things are worse than we ever imagined.

In the first few weeks, we discovered a £22 billion black hole in the public finances.

And before anyone says ‘oh this is just performative’.

Or ‘playing politics’.

Let’s remember.

The OBR did not know about this.

They didn’t know.

They wrote a letter saying they didn’t know.

They didn’t know because the last Government hid it.

Even just last Wednesday, we found out that thanks to the last Government’s recklessness, we borrowed almost £5 billion more than the OBR expected in the last three months alone.

That’s not performative – that’s fact.

But as well as the things we’ve discovered, we’ve also seen shocking scenes across the nation.

A mindless minority of thugs – who thought they could get away with causing chaos.

Smashing up communities and terrifying minorities.

Vandalising and destroying people’s property.

Even trying to set fire to a building – with human beings inside it.

And as if that wasn’t despicable enough.

People displaying swastika tattoos.

Shouting racist slurs on our streets.

Nazi salutes at the cenotaph –

The cenotaph – the very place we honour those who gave their lives for this country.

Desecrating their memory….

Under the pretence – and it is a pretence – of ‘legitimate protest’.

Now they’re learning that crime has consequences.

That I won’t tolerate a break down in law and order under any circumstances.

And I will not listen to those who exploit grieving families, and disrespect local communities.

But these riots didn’t happen in a vacuum.

They exposed the state of our country.

Revealed a deeply unhealthy society.

The cracks in our foundation laid bare –

Weakened by a decade of division and decline.

Infected by a spiral of populism…

Which fed off cycles of failures of the last Government. Every time they faced a difficult problem, they failed to be honest and offered the snake-oil of populism which led to more failure, round and round and round.

Stuck in the rut of the politics of performance.

And I saw the beginning of that downward spiral firsthand.

Back in 2011.

When riots ripped through London and across the country.

I was then Director of Public Prosecutions.

And when I think back to that time.

I see just how far we have fallen.

Because responding to those riots was hard – of course it was.

But dealing with the riots this summer was much harder.

In 2011, I didn’t doubt the courts could do what they needed to do.

This time – to be honest with you – I genuinely didn’t know.

Let me tell you this. Every day of that disorder – literally every day – we had to check the precise number of prison places we had and where those places were.

To make sure we could arrest, charge and prosecute people quickly.

Not having enough prison places is about as fundamental a failure as you can get.

And those people throwing rocks, torching cars, making threats.

They didn’t just know the system was broken.

They were betting on it.

Gaming it.

They thought – ‘ah, they’ll never arrest me.

And if they do, I won’t be prosecuted.

And if I am, I won’t get much of a sentence.’

They saw the cracks in our society after 14 years of populism and failure – and they exploited them.

That’s what we have inherited.

Not just an economic black hole.

A societal black hole.

And that’s we have to take action and do things differently.

And part of that is being honest with people – about the choices we face.

And How tough this will be.

And frankly – things will get worse before they get better.

I didn’t want to release prisoners early.

I was Chief Prosecutor for five years.

It goes against the grain of everything I’ve ever done.

But to be blunt – if we hadn’t taken that difficult decision immediately.

We wouldn’t have been able to respond to the riots as we did.

And if we don’t take tough action across the board.

We won’t be able to fix the foundations of the country as we need.

I didn’t want to means test the Winter Fuel Payment.

But it was a choice we had to make.

A choice to protect the most vulnerable pensioners.

while doing what is necessary to repair the public finances.

Because pensioners also rely on a functioning NHS.

Good public transport.

Strong national infrastructure.

They want their children to be able to buy homes.

They want their grandchildren to get a good education.

So we have made that difficult decision –

To mend the public finances.

So everyone benefits in the long term –

Including pensioners.

Now that is a difficult trade off.

And there will be more to come.

I won’t shy away from making unpopular decisions now…

If it’s the right thing for the country in the long term.

That’s what a government of service means.

This shouldn’t be a country where people fear walking down their street.

Their TVs showing cars and buildings being set on fire.

This shouldn’t be a country where the Prime Minister can’t guarantee prison places.

This shouldn’t be a country where people are paying thousands more on their mortgage.

Or waiting months for hospital appointments they desperately need.

Where our waters are filled with sewage.

Where parents worry that their kids won’t get the opportunities they did.

Where nothing seems to work anymore.

So, when I talk about the inheritance the last government left us…

The £22 billion black hole in our finances…

This isn’t about a line on a graph.

That’s about people’s lives.

Your lives.

This Government won’t always be perfect, but I promise you this:

You will be at the heart of it…

In the forefront of our minds…

At the centre of everything we do.

That’s why I wanted to invite you here today.

To show that decent, hard-working people who make up the backbone of this country belong here.

This government is for you.

A garden and a building that were once used for lockdown parties…

Remember the pictures just over there? With the wine and the food.

Well this garden…

And this building…

are now back in your service.

Those things happened precisely because the government itself lost its focus.

on the hopes and ambitions of working people.

During those recent riots, I made huge asks…

of the police and of the criminal justice system –

People already stretched to the limit.

They knew I was making big asks of them.

And I’m not going to apologise for it.

But let me tell you this – they delivered.

They deserve our gratitude.

And that’s why I went to Southport…

To Lambeth…

To Belfast…

To thank them personally. To shake the hands of the first responders who rose up to the ask I made of them.

They deserve a government that trusts them.

Supports them.

And works with them.

That is the sort of government we will be.

One that works with people, not does things to them.

One that believes in hard graft, not gimmicks.

Honest about the challenges we face…

And working tirelessly to fix them.

That is how we will always work.

Now, next week, parliament returns.

The business of politics will resume.

But it won’t be business as usual.

Because we can’t go on like this anymore.

Things will have to be done differently.

We will do the hard work to root out 14 years of rot.

Reverse a decade of decline.

And fix the foundations.

Between now and Christmas, we will carry on as we have started.

Action not words.

We will introduce legislation and take decisions to protect taxpayers’ money.

To take on the blockers by accelerating planning.

to build homes and boost growth.

We’ll move forward this autumn with harnessing the full potential of AI.

for growth and the public good.

We’ll bring rail service into public ownership, putting passengers first.

The biggest levelling up of workers’ rights in a generation to give people security, dignity and respect at work.

And Great British Energy will be owned by the taxpayer, making money for the taxpayer.

Producing clean energy and creating good jobs.

That is our focus for the rest of the year.

But I will be honest with you.

There’s a budget coming in October.

and it’s going to be painful.

We have no other choice given the situation that we’re in.

So those with the broadest shoulders should bear the heavier burden.

And that’s why we’re cracking down on non-doms.

Those who made the mess should have to do their bit to clean it up.

That’s why we’re strengthening the powers of the water regulator.

and backing tough fines on water companies that have let sewage flood our rivers, lakes and seas.

But just as when I responded to the riots –

I’ll have to turn to the country and make big asks of you as well.

To accept short term pain for long term good.

The difficult trade-off for the genuine solution.

And I know that after all that you’ve been through – that is a really big ask and really difficult to hear.

That is not the position we should be in.

It’s not the position I want to be in.

But we have to end the politics of the easy answer that solves nothing.

But I also know that we can get through this together.

Because the riots didn’t just betray the sickness.

They also revealed the cure.

Found not in the cynical conflict of populism.

But in the coming together of a country.

The people who got together the morning after.

All around the country.

With their brooms, their shovels, their trowels.

And cleared up their community.

They reminded us who we really are.

I felt real pride in those people who cleaned up the streets.

Rebuilt the walls.

Repaired the damage.

And I couldn’t help thinking about the obvious parallels.

Because imagine the pride we will feel as a nation.

When, after the hard work of clearing up the mess is done.

We have a country that we have built together.

Built to last.

That belongs to every single one of us.

And all of us have a stake in it.

Our hard work rewarded – a dozen times over.

Because we’ll have an economy that works for everyone.

An NHS not just back on its feet, but fit for the future.

Streets that everyone feels safe in.

No longer dependent on foreign dictators…

because we’re producing our own clean energy right here.

And giving every child – wherever they come from.

Whatever their background.

The chance – to go as far as their talent will take them.

I won’t lose sight of that prize.

I won’t lose sight of what we were elected to do.

And most importantly – I won’t lose sight of the people that we were elected to do it for.

You.

This is our country.

Let’s fix it – together.

August 27, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Remarks at the Farnborough Airshow

The comments made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, at the Farnborough Airshow on 22 July 2024.

Good morning, everyone.

It’s really good to see so many of you here. Many people that I’ve met before and had intense discussions with before about the important work that you do, that has informed my thinking and informs the thinking of the Labour government – which is why you see some of those measures reflected in the King’s Speech of last week.

So I am absolutely delighted to be able to be here again with you, but this time no longer as Leader of the Opposition. This time as Prime Minister – and please take that, in the beginning of week three in government, as a real statement of intent. It’s intended to be, and that is why we’ve got so many senior ministers here during the course of the show.

Now look, as you all know, better than most – we live in a dangerous, volatile and increasingly insecure world.

And that makes events like this, and the role that you play…

Ever more important for the defence and security of our country.

And as you may have seen, I have spent quite a lot of time at summits in the last week or two…

At NATO and the European Political Community…

And on Friday I had the pleasure of meeting the leader of Ukraine, President Zelenskyy, who came into Downing Street.

And at those meetings, whether it’s NATO, whether it’s the EPC, or whether it’s seeing President Zelenskyy as I did on Friday, it always gives me great comfort,

To know that Britain is at the cutting edge of defence and aerospace manufacturing…

So thank you not only for being here today…

But also for everything that you do for the security of our country.

Now we are just beginning week three of government.

The work of change has begun.

The patient rebuilding of our country has started.

And we’ve launched our Strategic Defence Review.

We’ve taken the brakes off Britain with a plan for wealth creation in every community.

Planning reform – to get Britain building again. Something many of us in the room have discussed with you on many occasions.

And we’re getting started on a new Industrial Strategy. Again, a concept that came very much from you to us in terms of the sort of way in which you want the partnership between government and your sector to work.

They are all signals of our intent…

To deliver high living standards for working people…

Economic security and national security.

But of course we know that national renewal is not going to happen overnight.

We are fixing the very foundation of our country…

And that is long and patient work.

But – I can announce another step along that road today…

Another marker of the future…

With the launch of a new organisation that we hope will transform, not just how we train our young people and adults…

But also the relationship between business and the education system.

A plan to make sure that we are training young people, not just for any business…

But for the businesses that exist in their community.

The skills you and they need…

To take each other forward.

So I am delighted that today we’re launching Skills England…

And appointing Richard Pennycook as the interim chair.

And I’m excited for the work that we can do together.

I’ve just met this morning some fantastic apprentices.

Bright, energic, intelligent…

An absolute credit to Airbus and Rolls Royce.

Now I’ve met the apprentices in both Airbus and Rolls Royce many times before – almost all of my speeches in the last two or three years have featured examples of the work that they are doing.

And it was brilliant to meet them here again this morning. Some of them were from a group that I met just a few months ago in Derby. So to review that, one of them was just two weeks into her apprenticeship. And so they were an incredible reminder of the talent that we have going forward.

And I was allowed to speak to them without anybody else listening in because I wanted to hear directly from them. And ask them, as I always do, what inspired them to do it, what gave them that spark.

And then towards the end of the time I had with them this morning, I said, “what do you want me to think about? Because this is a government of service, you’re entitled to have your say. What do you want me to think about as the Prime Minister heading a new government?”

And after a few moments, they were pretty clear in their collective view that they wanted me and the government to think about the value of apprentices, and to make sure that that was valued alongside the other things that so many young people do.

And that was them to me, and for all of you, I think you’d be very proud that that was their first thought. That was what they wanted me to think about as I go home from here.

And so they are a reminder of the incredible talent that we do have in this country.

Young people, with drive, ambition and hopes of a better future.

But we do have also to be honest…

All too often young people in our country have been let down.

Not given access to the right opportunities or training in their community.

And that has created an overreliance in our economy on higher and higher levels of migration.

Now – I don’t for a second want to demean any of that…

I do not criticise business who hire overseas workers…

And I certainly don’t diminish the contribution that migration makes…

To our economy, to our public services and of course to our communities.

Migration is part of our national story – it always has been and always will be.

And yet – if you stand back…

As a system, it cannot be right that some people don’t get to feel the pride of making a contribution…

The dignity of work…

Just because we can’t find a way of creating a coherent skills system. That can’t be right.

So – I have to say – we won’t be content just to pull the easy lever of importing skills…

We are turning the page on that.

But I want to be clear as well…

We are going to make sure that there are highly motivated, ambitious, talented young people…

Who want to work in your business.

That is our long-term ambition.

We’re going to fire up the training of more UK workers…

And match peoples’ aspirations – which I know are there…

With more opportunity.

And in doing this we will drive growth.

Because if there is one thing we know that will drive innovation and accelerate productivity…

It’s having the skilled workers you need to grow your business.

So from the get go…

Skills England will work with the Migration Advisory Committee…

We will identify current and future skills gaps…

Put in place plans to address those gaps…

And reduce our long-term reliance on overseas workers.

We will also identify the training on which the Growth and Skills Levy can be spent…

Something that I’ve spent many hours discussing with many people in this room.

You told me it was not flexible enough, didn’t work well enough for you.

Well we will change that with the Growth and Skills Levy, giving you more flexibility to spend funds on the training that you think is really necessary.

And Skills England will also bring together central and local government…

Training providers and unions…

Working together in broader partnership with business.

And this is key.

I said on the steps of Downing Street, two weeks ago Thursday, that I wanted to govern for the whole country…

And part of that is making sure we all understand each others’ needs…

That we move beyond old antagonisms…

And work for the common cause of national renewal.

A partnership.

So today with the launch of Skills England…

We’re putting that partnership into action…

Now we listened to you during the campaign and over the last few years…

We listened to you when we were developing our Plan for Growth…

And that informs it, some of your fingerprints are on our plan and I hope that they reflect the conversations that we’ve had. And we will carry on listening…

Because that’s how a partnership works.

We are making demands. We want growth. We want you to power up that growth.

But you equally can say to us in order for that to work, this is the framework you need to put into place.

That is how a partnership works, when both sides understand what their part is, but recognise they’re not the same part – government and business do different things.

And that’s why we’ll have our new Industrial Strategy…

On the Strategic Defence Review…

And on much, much more.

Together, I do believe we can deliver that growth and security.

Fix the foundations…

Put our economy on a stable footing…

And create a coherent skills system.

And everyone here has a vital part to play in this mission on growth…

You already do an incredible amount…

And I believe that with a government of service on your side…

We can do even more.

And in that spirit, it really is a huge honour, so early in this government, to open the Airshow, and to hope that you all have a productive time which I’m sure that you will.

Use it obviously intensely in the time that we’ve got here together.

Please keep talking and impressing on us the things that are important to you.

Thank you so much for allowing me to make these remarks. Thank you so much for being here. Thank you so much for your huge contribution to our country.

Thank you.

August 14, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Statement on NATO and European Political Community Meetings

The statement made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, on 22 July 2024.

Before I start my statement, I would like to pay a short tribute to President Biden, a man who, during five decades of service, never lost touch with the concerns of working people and always put his country first. A true friend of the Labour movement, his presidency will leave a legacy that extends far beyond America, to freedom and security on this continent—most of all, of course, in our steadfast resolve to stand by the people of Ukraine. He leaves the NATO alliance stronger than it has been for decades.

With permission, Mr Speaker, I would like to update the House on my recent discussions with leaders around the world, including at the NATO summit and at the meeting of the European Political Community last week at Blenheim Palace, the biggest European summit in the UK since the war.

Mr Speaker, the House knows the significance of Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill—the man who steered the march of European history towards democracy and the rule of law. It was a shared sacrifice for freedom—the blood bond of 1945. At both summits, we reaffirmed our commitment to that bond of security and freedom, as I am sure we do in this House today. NATO is the guarantor of those values, and that is more important than ever, because, today in Europe, innocent lives are once again being torn apart. Two weeks ago today there was an attack on a children’s hospital in Kyiv—children with cancer the target of Russian brutality.

Russia’s malign activity is not confined to Ukraine. In the Western Balkans, in Moldova and in Georgia, it is sowing instability. And let us not forget that it has targeted people on our streets and attempted to undermine our democracy. In the first days of this Government, I have taken a message to our friends and allies of enduring and unwavering commitment to the NATO alliance, to Ukraine and to the collective security of our country, our continent and our allies around the world. That message was just as relevant at the EPC last week. May I take this opportunity to thank the Leader of the Opposition, who brought that event to our shores in the first place?

At these meetings, I took a practical view of how the UK can meet this moment, driven not by ideology but by what is best for our country. That includes resetting our relationship with the European Union, because on these Benches we believe that the UK and the EU, working together as sovereign partners, are a powerful force for good across our continent. That has been my message throughout the many conversations that I have had with leaders in recent days, because countries want to work with Britain—of course they do. They welcome renewed British leadership on security, on illegal migration and on global challenges such as climate change. Our voice belongs in the room, centre stage, fighting for the national interest.

My conversations have focused on issues on which the British people want action, so I would like to update the House on my discussions in three specific areas. The first is European security. In Washington, I told NATO allies that the generational threat from Russia demands a generational response. That is why my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer will set out a clear path to spending 2.5% of our GDP on defence. It is also why I launched a strategic defence review, led by the former NATO Secretary-General Lord Robertson, to strengthen our armed forces and keep our nation safe.

I also took the opportunity at the NATO summit to confirm that we will deliver £3 billion-worth of military aid to Ukraine each year for as long as it takes. And together we confirmed Ukraine’s irreversible path to full NATO membership, because it is clear to me that NATO will be stronger with Ukraine as a member—something I reiterated to President Zelensky in person in Downing Street on Friday.

Secondly, I want to turn to the middle east, because that region is at a moment of grave danger and fragility. I have spoken to leaders in the region and allies around the world about our collective response. How can we deal with the malign influence of Iran, address its nuclear programme, manage the threat from the Houthis, ease tensions on Israel’s northern border, and work with all partners to uphold regional security?

Fundamental to that, of course, is the conflict in Gaza. I have spoken to the leaders of Israel and the Palestinian Authority. I have been clear that I fully support Israel’s right to security and the desperate need to see the hostages returned. I have also been clear that the situation in Gaza is intolerable, and that the world will not look away as innocent civilians, including women and children, continue to face death, disease and displacement. Mr Speaker, it cannot go on. We need an immediate ceasefire. Hostages out, aid in; a huge scale-up of humanitarian assistance. That is the policy of this Government, and an immediate ceasefire is the only way to achieve it, so we will do all we can in pursuit of these goals. That is why, as one of the first actions taken by this Government, we have restarted British funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency, to deliver that crucial humanitarian support.

We received the International Court of Justice opinion on Friday and will consider it carefully before responding, but let me say that we have always been opposed to the expansion of illegal settlements and we call on all sides to recommit to stability, peace, normalisation and the two-state solution: a recognised Palestinian state—the right of the Palestinian people—alongside a safe and secure Israel.

Thirdly, I want to turn to illegal migration. This issue has now become a crisis, and in order to tackle it we must reach out a hand to our European friends. We started that work at the EPC, agreeing new arrangements with Slovenia and Slovakia, deepening co-operation across Europe for our new border security command, and increasing the UK presence at Europol in The Hague, to play our full part in the European Migrant Smuggling Centre. The crisis we face is the fault of gangs—no question—but to stop illegal migration we must also recognise the root causes: conflict, climate change and extreme poverty. So I have announced £84 million of new funding for projects across Africa and the middle east, to provide humanitarian and health support, skills training, and access to education, because the decisions that people take to leave their homes cannot be separated from these wider issues.

We will work with our partners to stamp out this vile trade wherever it exists and focus on the hard yards of law enforcement with solutions that will actually deliver results. I have seen that in action, tackling counter-terrorism as Director of Public Prosecutions, and we can do the same on illegal migration. But let me be clear: there is no need to withdraw from the European convention on human rights. That is not consistent with the values of that blood bond, so we will not withdraw—not now, not ever.

The basic fact is that the priorities of the British people do require us to work across borders with our partners, and a Government of service at home requires a Government of strength abroad. That is our role. It has always been our role. Britain belongs on the world stage. I commend this statement to the House.

August 9, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Statement on Rioting and Attacks on Police

The statement made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, on 4 August 2024.

I utterly condemn the far-right thuggery we have seen this weekend.

Be in no doubt: those who have participated in this violence will face the full force of the law.

The police will be making arrests.

Individuals will be held on remand.

Charges will follow. And convictions will follow.

I guarantee you will regret taking part in this disorder.

Whether directly or those whipping up this action online, and then running away themselves.

This is not protest. It is organised, violent thuggery.

And it has no place on our street or online.

Right now, there are attacks happening on a hotel in Rotherham.

Marauding gangs intent on law breaking. Or worse.

Windows smashed.

Fires set ablaze.

Residents and staff in absolute fear.

There is no justification – none – for taking this action.

And all right-minded people should be condemning this sort of violence.

People in this country have a right to be safe.

And yet, we’ve seen Muslim communities targeted.

Attacks on Mosques.

Other minority communities singled out.

Nazi salutes in the street.

Attacks on the police.

Wanton violence alongside racist rhetoric.

So, no, I won’t shy away from calling this what it is:

Far-right thuggery.

To those who feel targeted because of the colour of your skin…

Or your faith…

I know how frightening this must be.

I want you to know this violent mob do not represent our country.

And we will bring them to justice.

Our police deserve our support, as they tackle any and all violent disorder that flares up.

Whatever the apparent cause or motivation we make no distinction.

Crime is crime.

And this government will tackle it.

Thank you.

August 5, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Statement on Rioting

The statement made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, on 1 August 2024.

This week – we are a nation in shock.

A country coming to terms with an attack so inexplicably vile…

That fear is an understandable reaction.

Our first thoughts of course are with the families at the heart of this…

Their pain is unimaginable.

And so I call on everyone to give them and indeed the wider community at Southport…

The space to grieve.

And time for the authorities in Merseyside…

To do their job.

There will be a time for questions.

And we will make sure that the victims and families in Southport…

Are at the heart of that process…

That’s the very least that we owe these families.

But we also owe them justice.

So while there’s a prosecution that must not be prejudiced…

For them to receive the justice that they deserve…

The time for answering those questions is not now.

And I remind everyone that the price for a trial that is prejudiced…

Is ultimately paid by the victims and their families.

Who are deprived of the justice that they deserve.

Let me turn now to the actions of a tiny, mindless minority in our society.

Because in the aftermath of this attack

The community of Southport had to suffer twice.

A gang of thugs, got on trains and busses…

Went to a community that is not their own…

A community grieving the most horrific tragedy…

And then proceeded to throw bricks at police officers.

Police officers who just 24 hours earlier…

Had been having to deal with an attack on children in their community.

Their community.

And make no mistake…

Whether it’s in Southport, London – or Hartlepool…

These people are showing our country exactly who they are.

Mosques targeted because they are Mosques.

Flares thrown at the statue of Winston Churchill.

A Nazi salute at the Cenotaph.

And so I’ve just held a meeting with senior police and law enforcement leaders…

Where we’ve resolved to show who we are.

A country – that will not allow understandable fear…

To curdle into division and hate in our communities.

And that will not permit, under any circumstances…

A breakdown in law and order on our streets.

Because let’s be very clear about this.

It’s not protest.

It’s not legitimate.

It’s crime…

Violent disorder.

An assault on the rule of law and the execution of justice.

And so on behalf of the British people…

Who expect their values and their security to be upheld…

We will put a stop to it.

I want to thank all of the police officers, across the country…

Who have already, as they so often do…

Stood up to intimidation and violence in the past few days…

And indeed, throughout the summer.

And let me be clear – the meeting this afternoon was not about pointing the finger of blame…

That is not how this Government of Service conducts its business…

Because it doesn’t work.

Rather – this was a meeting to pull together our response…

A response both to the immediate challenge…

Which is clearly driven by far-right hatred.

But also – all violent disorder that flares up.

Whatever the apparent cause or motivation – we make no distinction…

Crime is crime.

And so – to that end…

I can announce today, that following this meeting…

we will establish a national capability, across police forces…

To tackle violent disorder.

These thugs are mobile…

They move from community to community…

And we must have a policing response that can do the same.

Shared intelligence…

Wider deployment of facial recognition technology…

And preventive action – criminal behaviour orders…

To restrict their movements…

Before they can even board a train…

In just the same way we do with football hooligans.

And let me also say to large social media companies and those who run them…

Violent disorder clearly whipped up online…

That is also a crime.

It’s happening on your premises.

And the law must be upheld everywhere.

That is the single most important duty of Government…

Service rests on security.

And we will take all necessary action…

To keep our streets safe.

August 2, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Statement on the UK Covid-19 Inquiry

The statement made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, in the House of Commons on 18 July 2024.

The Chair of the UK covid-19 inquiry, the right honourable Baroness Heather Hallett, has today published the inquiry’s module 1 report, which examines the resilience and preparedness of the United Kingdom between 2009 and early 2020. I have today laid before both Houses a copy of this report.

The report concludes that the UK was under-prepared for the covid-19 pandemic, and that process, planning and policy across all four nations failed UK citizens. Poorly performing public services, pre-existing general levels of ill-health, and health and social inequalities are cited as factors that made the UK more vulnerable.

The covid-19 pandemic impacted each and every person in the UK. However, it did not have an equal impact, with some affected more than others and with some people still living with the impact of the virus.

The Government’s first responsibility is to keep the public safe, and as Prime Minister I am personally committed to each and every family who lost loved ones, and whose lives were changed forever, that this Government will learn the lessons from the inquiry. This means ensuring that the UK is prepared for a future pandemic, as well as the broadest range of potential risks facing our country. That is a top priority for this Government and what everyone should rightly expect from a Government working in their service.

The Government are committed to working with our colleagues in the devolved Governments, mayors and local partners as we carefully consider the recommendations in the report, as their efforts are vital to ensuring the resilience of the whole of the United Kingdom.

I would like to thank Baroness Hallett and her team for their thorough work on this report. The Government will carefully consider all of the findings and recommendations of the report in the context of the Government’s overall approach to resilience.

July 31, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Statement on the NATO Summit

The statement made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, in the House of Commons on 18 July 2024.

I attended the NATO leaders summit in Washington DC on 9-11 July, with the Foreign Secretary, the Defence Secretary and the Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet.

The summit marked the 75th anniversary of the world’s most successful defensive alliance. Following Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, NATO stands bigger, stronger and more united than ever. Sweden attended for the first time as a full ally. Ukraine, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the Republic of Korea and the EU also participated.

Allies welcomed Mark Rutte’s confirmation as NATO’s next Secretary-General, following on from Jens Stoltenberg’s outstanding decade of leadership.

The summit agreed an ambitious set of outcomes which will help to ensure the safety, security and prosperity of the one billion citizens of NATO allies. This included: further measures to boost our deterrence and defence, particularly against Russia, including ensuring that readier and more capable forces are available to deliver NATO’s new war-fighting plans; agreeing a NATO industrial capacity expansion pledge to accelerate defence industrial production; a new cyber-defence centre; and a refreshed artificial intelligence strategy. We welcomed the fact that 23 allies now invest at or above NATO’s target of 2% of GDP on defence.

I emphasised this Government’s steadfast commitment to the NATO alliance. Our strategic defence review will ensure that a NATO-first policy is at the heart of Britain’s defence plans. I confirmed that the UK will commit almost all of our armed forces to NATO, maintain our presence in Estonia and Poland, lead the land arm of the allied reaction force this year, and maintain and modernise our nuclear deterrent.

NATO allies met with President Zelensky in the NATO- Ukraine Council and agreed measures to enhance NATO’s support to Ukraine as it advances on its irreversible path to NATO membership. These included establishing the NATO security assistance and training for Ukraine (NSATU), which will coordinate the provision of military equipment and training for Ukraine by allies and partners. We made a pledge of long-term security assistance for Ukraine, with allies proportionately contributing a minimum baseline of funding of €40 billion over the next year. This pledge includes this Government’s commitment to providing £3 billion a year of military support for Ukraine until 2030-31 and for as long as needed. I joined 22 other countries in signing a Ukraine compact that draws together the bilateral security assurances that we have each signed with Ukraine.

Allies also met with leaders from New Zealand, Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and the EU. We agreed with our Indo-Pacific partners that we should continue to work together on shared challenges of the future, as security developments in their region directly affect Euro-Atlantic security. I had bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Kishida of Japan, President Yoon of the Republic of Korea and Prime Minister Luxon of New Zealand to discuss a range of topics, including advancing a shared approach that protects our interests, security and values.

I met with President Biden at the summit and at the White House, where we reaffirmed our shared commitment to NATO and the special relationship as the bedrock of our collective security and prosperity. We will continue to work side by side across the breadth of the relationship including on shared geopolitical challenges and our aligned ambitions for greater economic growth.

I also held bilateral meetings with President Zelensky of Ukraine, Prime Minister Kristersson of Sweden, Prime Minister Støre of Norway, President Erdoğan of Türkiye, Chancellor Scholz of Germany, and Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada. I engaged with all other allied and visiting leaders at the Summit. I met with Congressman Mike Johnson, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives; Congressman Hakeem Jefferies, Democratic Leader of the United States House of Representatives; Senator Chuck Schumer, Majority Leader of the United States Senate, and Senator Mitch McConnell, Republican Leader of the United States Senate. Additionally, I met with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and had a discussion with other key Senators.

I look forward to continuing to strengthen relations with European counterparts at the European Political Community summit at Blenheim Palace today.

July 31, 2024
Keir Starmer – 2024 Speech at the Opening Plenary Session of the European Political Community

The speech made by Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, at Blenheim Palace on 18 July 2024.

Friends, fellow Europeans…

Welcome to Britain…

And welcome to the splendour of Blenheim Palace.

I hope you enjoyed the weather, the drive, and the architecture of this beautiful place.

Thank you so much for being here.

It is of course the birthplace of Winston Churchill …

And we stand for the values that he embodies around the world.

Liberty and democracy, yes, of course…

But also defiance and resolve in their defence.

And today, as a new storm gathers over our continent…

We choose to meet it in that same spirit…

And we choose to meet it together.

And that is the choice of the government that I lead. Now two weeks old.

We want to work with all of you…

To reset relationships…

Rediscover our common interest…

And renew the bonds of trust and friendship…

That brighten the fabric of European life.

And the task is urgent…

Because our security is on the line.

Every day Ukraine fights to protect not just the Ukrainian people…

But the European people.

A continent where our belief…

In freedom, democracy and the rule of law…

Was hard-won.

And that wants to live in peace.

So President Zelenskyy, in your struggle to uphold those values…

I, we, salute you, once again.

Have no doubt: we will stand with you for as long as it takes.

Because I was struck by something that you said in fact during the NATO summit last week.

When you said that Ukraine needs more air defence, and then you said used words: before the new school year starts.

And that really struck me…

Because returning to school after the summer break…

That should be a moment of joy and excitement for children.

New uniforms, new exercise books, seeing how much their friends have grown over the summer holidays, and reuniting with friends.

How could anyone consider that them a target?

So our first task here today…

Is to confirm our steadfast support for Ukraine…

To unite once again behind those values that we cherish…

And to say, we will face down aggression on this continent – together.

Because the threat from Russia reaches right across Europe.

Many of us have seen attacks on our own democracy.

People targeted on our streets.

Military planes entering our airspace.

Ships patrolling our coastlines.

And in Moldova and the Western Balkans…

The threat is obviously even more acute.

So this is the moment for us all to do more.

And I’m proud of Britain’s role in maintaining European security.

Through NATO, through the Joint Expeditionary Force, and more.

We stand together.

We guard Europe’s frontiers.

And now we must find new, more ambitious ways of working together…

Firing up our industries…

Meeting, not just the military challenge….

But the challenge to our economic, cyber and energy security as well.

I take a practical view of how the UK can meet this moment.

I’m not driven by ideology – but by what is best for my country.

And so we will strengthen our existing relationships…

And we will build new ones.

This includes resetting our relationship with the EU.

Because I believe that the UK and the EU…

Working together as sovereign partners…

Are a powerful force for good across our continent.

For peace, for security, for prosperity…

For all our people.

We have shown this I think in the G7…

Where we are using Russian assets…

To ensure they pay for the devastation they have brought to Ukraine…

We’re placing unprecedented sanctions on Russia…

And reducing our collective dependence on Russian oil and gas.

And I think we should take pride in the steps our continent has taken on this.

But now we must see the job through.

We must use this moment…

To accelerate towards clean energy…

Support Ukraine to meet its energy needs ahead of winter…

And tackle the ships that are helping Russia to evade sanctions.

We know what we can achieve together.

But it’s also time that we bring this resolve to another challenge facing our continent…

The vile trade of people smuggling.

Let’s be frank – “challenge” – is the wrong word.

It is now, I think, a crisis.

As we speak, as we gather here…

A criminal empire is at work in every country represented here today.

Profiting off human misery and desperation.

Prepared to send infants, babies, pregnant mothers…

Innocent people…

To their deaths.

And last week four more souls…

And actually, last night another one…

Were lost in the waters of the English Channel.

A chilling reminder of the human cost of this vile trade.

And this summit is an opportunity to set a new path on illegal migration.

To transform the way that we work together…

On border security…

And law enforcement.

And to say, together: no more.

And in the UK our new Border Security Command will work in partnership with you.

We must combine our resources…

Share intelligence, share tactics…

Shut down the smuggling routes…

And smash the gangs.

Before I came into politics, I was the Director of Public Prosecutions in Britain…

A job I held for five years.

And I saw the work that can be done, across borders…

On issues like counter terrorism.

Sophisticated gangs working across our borders.

And we used those same techniques to take those gangs down to ensure the safety of citizens across Europe.

And so I for one simply do not accept and will never accept that we can’t do the same with the smuggling gangs…

That somehow, they are the only gangs that can operate across Europe with impunity.

I just never will accept that, having been involved myself in the taking down of terrorist gangs.

So we must do more, together.

We must also do more to tackle the problem, of course, at source…

To recognise the root causes…

We know what they are.

Conflict, climate change, extreme poverty.

The crisis we face is the fault of the gangs – no question.

But the decisions people take to leave their homes cannot be separated from these wider issues.

It is global inequality…

And that deserves our attention as well.

So let me say something very clearly.

We are resetting our approach here.

This Government will not commit taxpayer money to gimmicks…

We are here to serve our country in the national interest…

In pursuit of solutions that will actually deliver results.

And more than that…

We will approach this issue with humanity…

And with profound respect for international law.

And that’s why my government scrapped the unworkable Rwanda scheme on day one.

And it’s why we will never withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights.

Churchill himself was among the chief architects of the Convention.

It was built on the blood bond of 1945…

And our shared sacrifice for freedom.

I myself first read about these principles of the Convention and international law in a law library in Leeds, well 40 years ago now.

And that inspired me in everything I have done since then…

And I still draw strength from it and value from it everyday.

Because they speak about the dignity of every human being…

And that word “dignity” is there in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, one of the most important words in it.

Dignity of every human being.

The very essence of what it is to be human.

And that is our legacy…

And so the nations of Europe must lead again today.

Together we have the opportunity to make the world safer, fairer and more prosperous.

So let’s use this moment…

To do more for Ukraine…

Defend our democracies…

Secure our energy supplies…

And tackle illegal immigration…

It is a pleasure today, on behalf of my country…

To extend a hand to all of you.

To say that, under my leadership…

Britain will be a friend and a partner….

Ready to work with you.

Not part of the European Union…

But very much a part of Europe.

Not focused on the differences between us…

But on the values that we share…

United by our determination to defend them…

And certain about what we can achieve together.

And now I’d like to invite a true champion of European freedom…

…to address the plenary.

Our friend, President Zelenskyy.

Slava Ukraini!

July 24, 2024