Managing Expectations: PM Keir Starmer Warns of Tough Times Ahead in First Keynote Address

Is there more trouble ahead? Keir Starmer to temper hopes in inaugural address as Prime Minister

In 2010, the newly formed coalition government repeatedly emphasized during its initial months that the preceding Labour administration had left the economy in disarray, a point underscored by the notorious message stating "there is no money left."

By Darren McCaffrey, political reporter

Sunday, August 25, 2024, at 4

Communication plays a crucial role in a government's toolkit.

In 2010, the newly formed coalition government consistently emphasized during its initial months that the previous Labour administration had left the economy in disarray, a point underscored by the infamous note stating "there is no money left."

The initiative was so effective that several political analysts think it played a significant role in David Cameron's re-election five years afterward.

The Labour Party has taken this lesson to heart, thus Sir Keir Starmer’s primary focus in his inaugural address as prime minister on Tuesday centered on setting realistic expectations.

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He will caution that conditions in the UK will deteriorate further before they start to get better, and that the situation is more dire than previously anticipated.

In a stark shift from the buoyant mood when he first took office at Downing Street, the prime minister will now declare, "Part of this involves being truthful with the public—about the decisions we confront and the difficulties ahead. Honestly, conditions will deteriorate before they improve."

The question of whether conditions have deteriorated beyond pre-election expectations has become a debatable political issue.

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In certain regions, challenges are notably severe: Correctional facilities, refugee processing, and government budgets are evidently facing significant pressures.

It is wise and cautious for Labour to note that achieving any change will require time.

If the communication is effective, it could provide them a temporary reprieve, allowing voters to be more patient for visible progress.

Starmer is set to address what he describes as deep-seated decay at the core of our nation's foundations, which he attributes to past Conservative administrations. Labour anticipates that it will reap the benefits from any and all enhancements made.

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The overall economic situation in the UK appears quite positive. The numbers for migration are on the decline, while unemployment continues to stay low. The legacy left behind has its merits, and it wouldn't be shocking if the Labour Party begins to take credit for some of these achievements as the memory of the election date starts to wane.

In the end, no administration can escape the truths of citizens' daily experiences and the challenges they encounter.

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However, if they are able to handle unexpected challenges and shape public narratives, historical evidence indicates that such strategies may enable governments to overcome their political adversaries going forward.

Sir Keir is likely anticipating that his speech will resonate with voters not only in the immediate future but also in the long term.

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