Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has pledged that 2025 will be a “year of rebuilding” and an opportunity for Britain to “rediscover the great nation that we are.” Delivering his first New Year’s message since entering Downing Street, Starmer reflected on Labour’s achievements in 2024 while acknowledging the challenges ahead.
A year of change
Looking back on Labour’s first months in power following their resounding July general election victory, Starmer characterised 2024 as a “year of change.” He highlighted accomplishments such as raising the minimum wage, advancing clean energy projects, and investing in the NHS.
He struck a lighter note, referencing England’s narrow defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, saying:
“Change hasn’t reached football yet, as we suffered another agonisingly close shave. But beyond the pitch, our nation is beginning to move forward.”
Honouring the past, building the future
Starmer underscored the significance of 2025 as a year to reflect on Britain’s resilience and unity, citing the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day as pivotal moments for national remembrance.
“These anniversaries remind us of the sacrifices made by the greatest generation and the peace and prosperity they fought for,” he said. “They serve as a foundation for the security and opportunity we aim to rebuild today.”
The Prime Minister called for unity and determination:
“A nation that gets things done, no matter how hard or tough the circumstances – that is the Britain we must rediscover in 2025.”
A clear plan for change
Starmer laid out Labour’s agenda for the coming year, emphasising his government’s focus on practical and transformative reforms:
- Building 1.5 million new homes to revive home ownership dreams.
- Ensuring children start school prepared to learn.
- Establishing a secure energy system to reduce dependency on volatile markets.
- Dramatically reducing NHS waiting lists.
- Cutting immigration and enhancing neighbourhood policing to combat anti-social behaviour.
- Increasing economic security for working families.
“This is what we mean by rebuilding Britain,” Starmer said. “Our goal is not just to rebuild but to reignite belief in the promise and prosperity of our nation.”
Challenges ahead
Despite the optimism, the Prime Minister faces a challenging year. Labour’s October Budget, spearheaded by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, introduced measures to raise £40 billion annually through higher taxes. The revenue aims to fund increased spending on schools, healthcare, transport, and housing.
However, with departments ordered to identify 5% spending cuts and questions over meeting the government’s defence spending and net-zero targets, scrutiny remains high.
More Read
Economic recovery is also a priority, with ministers working to deliver growth after the economy showed signs of stagnation in 2024. The upcoming local elections in May will provide a critical measure of public sentiment toward Labour’s early months in power.
Resetting relationships
On the international stage, Starmer aims to reset the UK’s relationship with the European Union, reaffirm support for Ukraine, and navigate the diplomatic complexities of Donald Trump’s return to the US presidency.
Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch used her New Year’s message to acknowledge her party’s ongoing transformation. “The Conservative Party is undergoing a period of renewal,” she said. “It will be a long-term project, but we are committed to doing things differently.”
A call to action
In closing his message, Starmer reiterated his government’s determination to deliver meaningful change.
“2025 is our chance to rebuild, to rediscover the greatness of our nation, and to secure a better future for all,” he said. “Here’s to a year of changing Britain for the better.”
As the nation embarks on what promises to be a pivotal year, the Prime Minister’s vision for a united, prosperous Britain will be put to the test both at home and abroad.
