Starmer Stands Firm on Fuel Cut Amid Warnings of a Challenging Road Ahead in First Conference Speech as PM

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, in his inaugural conference speech as prime minister, cautioned about challenging times ahead while defending the reduction in winter fuel assistance.

Political correspondent @alixculbertson

Tuesday, September 24, 2024, 5:

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Sir Keir Starmer has justified the decision to cut the winter fuel allowance for many retirees, cautioning that challenging times lie ahead.

During his keynote address at the Labour Party conference, the Prime Minister aimed to shift the recent pervasive negativity, asserting that his administration is set to transform the nation, though he cautioned that the process would be gradual.

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As Sir Keir was concluding his address, 18-year-old protester Daniel Riley stood up and interrupted by yelling, "Children of Gaza."

The prime minister confidently continued his speech amid applause, remarking, "It seems this gentleman still holds a pass from the 2019 conference [under Jeremy Corbyn's leadership]. We've transformed the party – while he has been demonstrating, we've been enacting change, which is why we now have a Labour government."

In his address, he acknowledged worries regarding the reduction of the winter fuel subsidy, conceding that the decision has caused some to doubt his party's commitment.

Sir Keir pledged to reduce welfare costs, revamp public services, safeguard them in alignment with Labour principles, and assured there would be no resurgence of Conservative-led austerity.

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In an interview with Sky News, Sir Keir Starmer disclosed that he accepted a donation of £20,000 following a commitment to safeguard his family.

At the Labour conference, members voted to restore the winter fuel allowance reduction, marking a significant setback for Starmer.

How much of the 'change' that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer pledged was merely rhetorical?

"Should you find it difficult to accept this without question, possibly due to worries about the winter fuel subsidy, then I understand," he conveyed to attendees at the meeting in Liverpool.

"As I mentioned, if this route were well-trodden or simple, we would have already taken it.

"However, the danger of revealing to the world, as the Conservatives once did, that this nation does not adequately finance its policies is a risk we cannot afford to take once more."

Securing our economic stability is the initial phase of this extended strategy.

"Labour's strategy ensures reduced costs, shorter NHS waiting times, and the maintenance of the triple lock guarantee, enhancing the financial well-being of every pensioner across the nation."

He further stated that Labour is consolidating the economy and repairing the base to "construct, with confidence and resolve, a Britain that belongs to you."

"He mentioned it would be difficult."

"This isn't just talk – it's the truth."

He did not acknowledge that the coalition government implemented the triple lock in 2011, a policy ensuring that state pensions increase annually by the greatest of either 2.5%, inflation, or wage growth.

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While in Liverpool, Sir Keir declared his intention to bring the Hillsborough Law before Parliament prior to the upcoming April anniversary of the tragedy. This proposed legislation would mandate public organizations to collaborate fully with inquiries into significant disasters.

On April 15, 1989, a tragic incident occurred during an FA Cup semi-final match in Sheffield, leading to the loss of 97 lives from Liverpool supporters due to a crowd surge

Supportive Housing for Veterans

During his address, Sir Keir announced that the government will provide housing for all veterans.

"He pointed out that there's another clear but overlooked injustice present on the streets of every town and city across our nation," he stated.

Individuals ready to give everything for our country, risking their lives for our safety, yet tonight, they find themselves without a secure place to rest.

"We can no longer remain passive in the face of this issue. Therefore, I am pleased to declare that our government will honor their sacrifice by ensuring that all veterans in need of housing will receive the support and accommodations they deserve."

"Houses will be provided for champions."

He further verified that Labour's state-owned energy firm, GB Energy, will have its headquarters in Aberdeen. Although there had been speculation about this location, this announcement marks its official confirmation.

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Middle Eastern Region

Sir Keir spoke about the intensifying circumstances in the Middle East, urging for "restraint and de-escalation at the Lebanon-Israel border."

"He urged all groups to retreat from the edge," he stated.

"I am once again urging an immediate halt to hostilities in Gaza, the release of captives, and a renewed dedication to the two-state solution: a recognized Palestinian state coexisting with a safe and secure Israel."

During his speech, the prime minister misspoke, referring to "the return of the sausages" before swiftly correcting his error to "the return of the hostages."

Sparkle on a sleeve edge

Seizing the opportunity to critique his Tory predecessors, he dismissed his detractors, making light of an incident from last year's conference where a heckler showered him with glitter.

If you're familiar with me, you're aware that the loud cries and the insincere suggestions from individuals who long for showy political antics, along with the frail and timid illusions of populism, simply roll off me without any effect.

Just some sparkle on a shirt sleeve.

"I've never been sidetracked by it in the past, and I'm not about to start now. This project is for the long haul.

"The era of politics characterized by patience, resolve, and dedication to service has commenced."

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