Free Republic

The UK will pursue closer economic ties with the European Union in light of the war in Iran, Sir Keir Starmer has said. The prime minister told a news conference he would use a summit with the EU later this year to seek more cooperation with the bloc on the economy and security. It comes as relations between the US and the UK have been increasingly strained by the PM's refusal to be drawn further into the war with Iran. In his speech, Sir Keir warned the conflict would impact the UK but sought to reassure the public the government...

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has promised to "defeat the decline and division offered by others" in his new year message, as he insisted 2026 would see people feel "positive change" in their lives. He acknowledged "things have been tough in Britain for a while" but said the public should now start to see improvements including lower bills, more police on the streets and new health hubs. It has been a difficult year for the PM, who has been battling slowing economic growth, poor poll ratings and speculation he could face a leadership challenge. In her own new year message,...