John AdoyiIn a landslide victory on Thursday, Sir Keir Starmer and his Labour Party ousted the Conservative Party, which has ruled the United Kingdom for the past 14 years. This change followed a snap election called by Rishi Sunak, the outgoing Prime Minister.
The Labour Party secured over 400 seats, surpassing the Conservative Party’s tally, which fell below 200 seats. This victory gave Sir Keir Starmer the required majority to become the next Prime Minister. Given his significant achievement, here are ten things you need to know about him:
Early Life and Background
Keir Starmer was born on 2nd September 1962, in Southwark, London, and raised in Oxted, Surrey. His father was a toolmaker, and his mother was a nurse. His upbringing in a working-class family deeply influenced his values and work ethic.
Education
Starmer attended Reigate Grammar School and later studied law at the University of Leeds and St Edmund Hall, Oxford. He was the first in his family to attend university, a significant achievement that laid the foundation for his legal career.
Legal Career
Before entering politics, Starmer had a distinguished legal career. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 2002 and served as the Director of Public Prosecutions from 2008 to 2013. During his tenure, he was known for prosecuting the perpetrators of the Stephen Lawrence murder and for his efforts in reforming the Crown Prosecution Service.
Human Rights Advocate
As a human rights lawyer, Starmer worked on numerous cases, including representing individuals on death row and advocating against the Iraq War. His commitment to justice and human rights has been a constant theme throughout his career.
Political Career
Starmer was elected as the Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras in 2015. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Shadow Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union and later, Leader of the Labour Party in 2020.
Leadership of the Labour Party
Starmer’s leadership marked a shift towards a more centrist approach compared to his predecessor, Jeremy Corbyn. His focus has been on rebuilding trust in the Labour Party and addressing key issues such as public services, workers’ rights, and the economy.
Personal Life
Starmer is married to Victoria Alexander, a worker with the UK’s National Health Service and they have two children. They have been together since the early 2000s.
Knighthood
In 2014, Starmer was appointed to the knightly order for his work in criminal justice. Despite his title, he prefers to be addressed simply as ‘Keir’ and often emphasizes his root and humble beginnings.
Net Worth
According to Prolific London, Sir Keir has a net worth of around £7.7 million.
Vision for the UK
As Prime Minister, Starmer aims to address challenges facing the UK, including improving public services, supporting economic growth, and ensuring social justice. His leadership promises a new direction for the country after 14 years of Conservative rule, with a focus on unity and rebuilding trust in government.
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