Keir Starmer Unveils Ambitious 'Plan for Change' to Revitalize UK Amidst Criticism
December 5, 2024Keir Starmer is preparing to deliver a significant 'reset' speech at Pinewood film studios, outlining a 'plan for change' aimed at addressing pressing national issues and winning over disillusioned voters.
This speech comes after a challenging first five months for Starmer's government, which has faced criticism and resignations, particularly following a controversial tax and spend budget.
Starmer's address is expected to include specific targets, referred to as 'milestones', focusing on improving the NHS, reducing crime, enhancing living standards, and addressing early childhood education.
Among the ambitious goals, the government aims to build 1.5 million new homes in England by the end of the Parliament in 2029, with plans to fast-track decisions on 150 major infrastructure projects.
Starmer's plan also emphasizes raising living standards and tackling NHS backlogs, with a target for 92% of patients to receive planned treatment within 18 weeks by 2029.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper supports the 'reset', asserting it will align with citizens' priorities, particularly regarding community safety and policing.
However, the Conservatives have criticized Starmer's policing plan, claiming that only a third of the proposed 13,000 recruits will be full police officers and that funding is insufficient.
In addition to social issues, the government plans to bolster energy security by establishing GB Energy, targeting 95% clean power by 2030, despite concerns over reduced previous zero-carbon goals.
As part of restoring law and order, Labour intends to rebrand Anti-Social Behaviour Orders as 'respect orders', making non-compliance a criminal offense.
Concerns persist among some ministers about the feasibility of achieving these new measurable milestones without adequate funding, which could hinder necessary reforms.
Ultimately, Starmer's reputation will be closely tied to the success of the initiatives outlined in the 'Plan for Change', underscoring the realities of modern political accountability.
To strengthen reform efforts, key figures from the Blair administration have been reintroduced, reflecting a strategic move to enhance the government's credibility.
Summary based on 9 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Dec 5, 2024
Can Keir Starmer’s six targets turn the tide? What the PM said – and what it all meansThe Guardian • Dec 5, 2024
Keir Starmer to set out new pledges to show Labour government is ‘delivering change’ – UK politics liveThe Guardian • Dec 1, 2024
Keir Starmer’s new delivery targets are intended to give an electric jolt to Whitehall | Andrew RawnsleyBBC News • Dec 5, 2024
Will the government be able to hit its new targets?