Sir Keir Starmer listed five key pledges in a New Year message, launching his bid to win power in 2024.
He said: “This year, in Britain, the power to shape the future of our country will rest in your hands.”
Insisting he is ready to serve as prime minister, he said: “In the Labour Party we’ve been building to this for four years.”
The Labour leader’s “plan that can move our country forward” includes:
● Ending the cost-of-living crisis.
● Taking back our
streets.
● Getting the NHS back on its feet.
● Cheaper energy bills.
● More opportunities for children.
Starmer’s speech put particular emphasis on the struggle between Israel and terror group Hamas, following criticism of his refusal to support a permanent ceasefire.
Ten shadow ministers quit or were fired after being ordered to abstain on a Commons motion to bring an end to the fighting.
Sir Keir insisted Labour will “push for a political solution to that conflict”.
Research shows the party remains on course for victory, with a 22-point lead over the Tories.
A People Polling survey for GB News found 45 per cent back Labour, against 23 per cent for the Tories.
Some Tory MPs think they can retain power if the polls narrow to a 10 per cent Labour lead during the campaign.
