“We have been given a clear mandate and we will use it to bring about change. To restore service and respect for politics. To end the era of rowdy performances. Take more care of your lives. And to unite our country,” Starmer told his fellow citizens minutes after his confirmation as the 58th Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
Starmer spoke at the same venue where, just hours earlier, his predecessor Rishi Sunak apologized to the nation and took responsibility for the Conservatives’ crushing defeat in yesterday’s election, NBC News reports. In his speech, the new prime minister called on the country to move forward together.
“This wound, this lack of trust, can only be healed by actions, not words. I know that, but we can start today with a simple acknowledgement,” added Starmer, standing in front of the iconic black door of 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the Prime Minister.
He promised those who did not vote for Labour that his government would serve them. Adding that the changes would be urgent, he acknowledged that their implementation would take time. “Changing the country is not flipping a switch,” Starmer added. “It will take some time.”
Starmer arrived at 10 Downing Street, which will now be his and his family’s residence, after being formally appointed prime minister by King Charles III. The prime minister stepped out of the car with his wife Victoria to applause from supporters waving miniature British flags.
It was reported earlier that the new head of the British government will form a cabinet of ministers at the end of the day, which will hold its first meeting on Saturday. Following Starmer, the future heads of departments began arriving in Downing Street on Friday afternoon, many of whom will occupy senior government posts for the first time.
Meanwhile
Final election results will not be announced on Friday as planned due to a delay in counting in Scotland. A recount has been called in the constituencies of Inverness, Skye and West Ross-shire for Saturday, British media reported, due to an alleged discrepancy between the total number of verified votes and the provisional number counted. Counting will resume early Saturday morning, according to Scotland’s The Herald newspaper. The Labour party currently holds 412 of the 650 seats in parliament.
