As Sir Keir Starmer marks his first full year as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom following Labour's 2024 election landslide, assessments reveal a challenging and turbulent tenure. Despite initial high expectations, Starmer's government has faced criticism for failing to deliver on key manifesto pledges, with numerous U-turns and a perceived lack of decisive leadership. Labour's majority of 156 seats has not translated into smooth governance, as the administration has struggled with social unrest, fiscal instability, and internal party dissent. Influential Labour figures, including MP Maurice Glasman, have publicly stated that Starmer has approximately six months to enact significant changes to sustain his premiership. Starmer himself has characterized his leadership style as tough, describing himself as a "hard bastard," while urging party unity amid growing political pressures. Public opinion polls indicate declining approval, with around 61% of Britons rating his performance poorly. The government has also contended with challenges abroad, including trade negotiations, and domestically with issues such as NHS waiting times and immigration enforcement. Media coverage across outlets like The Economist, Politico Europe, and Sky News highlights a leadership crisis and questions about Starmer's ability to complete his term, with some describing him as an "invisible Prime Minister." The first year has been marked by a contrast between Labour's electoral promise and the realities of governing, leaving the party's future and Starmer's leadership under scrutiny.
Labour is still dominated by people more interested in winning an election than running Britain well, as if the former is unconnected to the latter https://t.co/VWxRpsTPPl
Labour used to stand for the working class. Now they stand for the not-working class.
Keir Starmer claims he has become a "hard bastard" during his first year in power. How would you describe him? 🚨 PLANK OF THE WEEK: https://t.co/snHzaaJ964 @Iromg @DobbsandPolicy @mrstevenallen @RafHM https://t.co/J7nNScmmCA