Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, has paid tribute to his younger brother Nick, who passed away on Boxing Day at the age of 60 following a battle with cancer. The Prime Minister described his brother as a “wonderful man” who faced life’s challenges with “courage and good humour.”
Nick, who had learning difficulties caused by complications at birth, died peacefully, according to a spokesperson for Sir Keir. The Prime Minister was due to begin a family holiday on Friday but is now expected to remain at home, hoping to join his family later.
In a heartfelt statement, Sir Keir said:
“My brother Nick was a wonderful man. He met all the challenges life threw at him with courage and good humour. We will miss him very much. I would like to thank all those who treated and took care of Nick. Their skill and compassion are deeply appreciated.”
A shared childhood
Sir Keir’s close bond with his brother was chronicled in a recent biography by journalist Tom Baldwin. Growing up in Surrey, the two shared a bunk bed in a modest room and navigated life as part of a family of six. Each Starmer sibling received a dog on their 10th birthday, and Nick’s dog, a Jack Russell terrier named Greg, was a constant companion.
The biography recounts how Sir Keir’s mother, Jo, taught Nick to read despite the limited expectations of the school system. Reflecting on his brother’s challenges, Sir Keir said:
“They had no expectation of him or anything, and I’m not sure he even sat exams. He had nothing to show for coming out of education. Nick didn’t have many friends and got called ‘thick’ or ‘stupid’ by other kids.”
This experience left a profound impact on Sir Keir, shaping his empathy and values. He said:
“Even now, I try to avoid using words like that to describe anyone.”
A life of quiet achievements
Nick worked in physically demanding jobs, such as dismantling scrap cars and scaffolding, which allowed him to rent a home near the family’s roots. Sir Keir was best man at Nick’s wedding, borrowing a car to ensure his brother could drive his bride in style rather than in his work van.
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Although the marriage ended and Nick later relocated to Yorkshire, Sir Keir’s admiration for his brother’s resilience remained unwavering. In his Labour Party conference speech in Liverpool earlier this year, Sir Keir shared how his father recognised Nick’s achievements, often saying:
“Your brother has achieved just as much as you, Keir.”
A private battle
Nick’s illness brought Sir Keir closer to him in recent years. During the 2022 local elections, Sir Keir temporarily stepped away from campaigning to visit Nick in hospital. Despite his high-profile role, Sir Keir made regular trips to Leeds without media presence, often using a back entrance to avoid publicity.
Tom Baldwin recalled how Sir Keir had formed a rapport with the hospital staff, knowing their names and expressing gratitude for their care.
Condolences pour in
The political world expressed its sympathies following the news of Nick’s passing. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch wrote on X, formerly Twitter:
“This is such awful news. Particularly devastating at Christmas time. My sincere condolences to Keir Starmer and all his family.”
Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris added:
“My sincere sympathy to Keir Starmer and his family on such sad news.”
Nick Starmer’s story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those with learning difficulties and the strength of family bonds. Sir Keir’s tribute captures a lifetime of admiration, underscoring Nick’s quiet triumphs and enduring legacy.
