LONDON, Sept 30 (KUNA) -- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer sought to present a vision of a tolerant, dignified, and respectful Britain, contrasting it with the Reform Party leader's intentions to sow division.
Speaking at the Labour Party's annual conference in Liverpool on Tuesday, Starmer addressed his leadership amid polls showing Labour trailing behind the Reform Party. He outlined his principles, emphasizing plans for national renewal and a commitment to combating racist rhetoric, stressing that inciting racial violence is a criminal act.
Starmer criticized politicians across the spectrum for trying to turn the UK into a "victim's playground." In a departure from Labour's past under Tony Blair, he pledged to tighten immigration controls and revamp traditional industries, stating, "We have put too much faith in globalization." He also proposed a shift from the goal of 50% university enrollment to a new ambition where two-thirds of children will have the option of university or vocational training.
Starmer announced plans for an electronic hospital service for the NHS in England and ruled out a wealth tax in the upcoming budget, defending the fiscal rules set by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. His commitment to reducing child poverty was well-received, and he also praised a US-backed peace plan for the Gaza Strip, receiving applause for recognizing a Palestinian state. (end) nbs.ara