From riots to reforms: Starmer’s plan to tackle Britain’s deep-rooted problems

Prime Minister sets a realistic tone, calling for patience in fixing the damage left by previous govt

LONDON:

Prime Minister Keir Starmer will address the British public next week, warning that resolving the nation's pressing issues will take time, with things potentially worsening before they improve. In his upcoming speech, Starmer aims to be transparent about the challenges ahead, urging the public to prepare for a long-term approach to change.

Since his landslide election win in July, Starmer has frequently criticised the former Conservative government for leaving the country in a poor state. He claims this allowed "thugs" to incite recent anti-migrant riots.

In his speech, scheduled for Tuesday ahead of Parliament’s return from summer recess, Starmer will caution that meaningful change cannot be achieved immediately, with his government committed to addressing the nation’s deep-rooted problems. These range from overcrowded prisons to extensive healthcare waiting lists.

Excerpts from the speech reveal Starmer's intent to convey that tackling these issues will require an overhaul rather than quick fixes. He emphasises that his government is inheriting not only an economic crisis but a societal one as well. “You can’t just cover it up. You can’t tinker with it,” Starmer will assert, while preparing the public for the difficult times ahead.

Starmer, a former Director of Public Prosecutions, had to cut short his summer holiday earlier this month to address violent riots targeting Muslims and migrants. The unrest erupted following the wrongful accusation of an Muslim migrant for the deaths of three young girls in northern England, based on misinformation spread online.

Starmer points to these riots as evidence of a fractured society, attributing the disorder to the previous government's failure to address systemic issues. He believes that the rioters exploited cracks in society that had widened after 14 years of populism.

Addressing Britain's working people, including teachers, nurses, and small business owners, Starmer will highlight that his government has already begun taking steps towards delivering the change voters sought in July. However, he acknowledges the precarious state of public finances, with a projected £22 billion overspend this year, a significant obstacle to achieving his goals.

Starmer plans to stress the need for difficult decisions in the face of these economic challenges, pledging to make unpopular choices if they serve the nation’s long-term interests. His speech will underline his commitment to rebuilding Britain, even if the path forward proves tough. "I won’t shy away from making unpopular decisions now if it’s the right thing for the country in the long term," he will state, positioning his government as one that prioritises service to the nation.