Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to reassure the nation that there is “light at the end of this tunnel,” urging the public to endure short-term financial hardships in exchange for long-term prosperity.
In his first speech to the Labour conference since taking office, he will outline the need for tough economic decisions to address the “black hole” in public finances left by the Conservatives, stating that tax cuts are not on the horizon until these issues are resolved.
Looking to the future, Starmer will pledge that stabilising the economy will deliver tangible benefits over the next five years, including higher growth, reduced NHS waiting lists, stronger borders, and a cleaner energy system. This positive message is aimed at dispelling criticism, even from within his own Cabinet, that his rhetoric since becoming Prime Minister has been too pessimistic.
‘Short-term pain for long-term gain’
Starmer’s speech comes as the government faces backlash over the removal of winter fuel payments for 10 million pensioners, a move that prompted boos at the Labour conference. He will acknowledge the difficulty of the current situation but argue that the sacrifices made today will ultimately lead to a more secure and prosperous future for the country.
“The politics of national renewal are collective,” Starmer is expected to say. “This will be tough in the short term, but in the long term, it’s the right thing to do for our country. If we take tough long-term decisions now—higher economic growth, reduced hospital waiting lists, safer streets, stronger borders, clean British energy—we will reach that light at the end of this tunnel much more quickly.”
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