Keir Starmer has published an emotional first Christmas message as Prime Minister in which he talks about “the hope and joy of this special season”.
The PM thanked those who will spend the festive period serving others, including doctors and nurses, our armed forces and churches and charities who welcome their communities in.
While he spoke about the “joy and wonder” of Christmas, Mr Starmer also acknowledged that it is not an easy time for many people across the country and the world. In a moving message, he told the nation: “My thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone.
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“Because as Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Christmas story reminds all of us to reach out to one another. To care for one another. And to look after those around us.”
And he also spoke about those whose lives are being torn apart by war and conflict across the world: “This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story.”
Downing Street earlier revealed the Prime Minister is due to take his first break abroad since winning the election over the festive season. Officials said Mr Starmer is due to go away for a few days with his family over New Year. No10 would not say where the PM is going, with his travel usually kept quiet due to security reasons. Mr Starmer will remain in charge of the country during his trip.
In August Mr Starmer cancelled his family holiday following the wave of disorder across the UK. The PM had been expected to head to Europe with his family for a few days – but opted to stay at home with police forces on “high alert”.
Keir Starmer’s Christmas message in full:
This Christmas, people will be travelling up and down the country. Heading home, visiting relatives and loved ones to celebrate together the hope and joy of this special season.
It’s a time to remind ourselves what’s really important. Family. Friendship. And fellowship between all people. Being there for one another – in these celebrations, as well as the more difficult times.
I’d like especially to thank those who will spend their Christmas serving others this year. In our NHS and emergency services, our Armed Forces and the churches and charities that will welcome every person this Christmas.
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Because I know that this is not an easy time for everyone, and my thoughts are with all those who are lonely this Christmas. Having a tough time, missing a loved one. You are not alone.
Because as Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Christmas story reminds all of us to reach out to one another. To care for one another. And to look after those around us.
This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story.
I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings. So, from my family to yours, I hope you have a very merry Christmas.