Sir Keir Starmer Delivers First Maiden Speech after Election

As part of his maiden address to the nation after officially becoming prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer has said "our work is urgent and we begin it today".

Entering Downing Street, Sir Keir greeted a crowd of cheering Labour supporters waving Union, Welsh and Scottish flags before he addressed the nation in front of Number 10.

Much of the country was turned red overnight, with Rishi Sunak conceding defeat just before 5am on Friday and Sir Keir claiming victory shortly after.

Sir Keir began his address by acknowledging Mr. Sunak's historic achievement as the first British Asian prime minister, noting the significant effort required. 

The new prime minister emphasized that the country has decisively voted for change, national renewal, and a return to public service in politics. 

He addressed the public's growing disengagement with politics, highlighting how the disparity between people's sacrifices and the service they receive from politicians has led to national weariness and diminished hope for a better future.

To voters who did not vote for the Labour Party, Sir Keir said: "My government will serve you."

"Politics can be a force for good - we will show that," he added.

He said: "If I asked you now whether you believed that Britain will be better for your children, I know too many of you will say no - and so my government will fight until you believe again."

But he warned changing a country "is not like flicking a switch... this will take a while, but I have no doubt that the work of change begins immediately".

Sir Keir invited "you all to join this government of service in the mission of national renewal".

He said his government will be "unburdened by doctrine, guided only by the determination to serve your interest, to defy quietly those who have written our country off".

"Our work is urgent and we begin it today," he concluded to cheers.

The Labour leader had his meeting with the King in Buckingham Palace after Rishi Sunak stepped down following the worst ever general election result for the Conservatives.

Sir Keir has become the first Labour prime minister in 14 years - and the seventh Labour prime minister ever.

Following the meeting, the King's spokesman said the King requested that Sir Keir formed a new administration.

"Sir Keir accepted His Majesty's offer and kissed hands upon his appointment as prime minister and first lord of the Treasury," he said