Wednesday, July 17, 2024

In opposition, Sir Keir Starmer was not one for pulling rabbits out of hats. 
The Labour leader promised a politics which "treads more lightly on people's lives", pointing those who want "politics as a pantomime" to Nigel Farage in Clacton. 

In government, the new prime minister has started as he means to go on, with his first King's Speech containing few surprises.

 
Kicking off a promised decade of national renewal, Sir Keir set out plans to unlock housing and infrastructure building and restore trust in British institutions. 

And while he stressed the importance of "determined, patient work and serious solutions", he appeared all too aware of the challenge Reform and the Tories at the next election will bring. 

"The snake oil charm of populism may sound seductive, but it drives us into the dead end of further division and greater disappointment," he warned.

What was top of the UK charts the last time Labour came to power under Sir Tony Blair?

Answer at the bottom of today's email

Support The Independent

At The Independent, nobody tells us what to think; we make up our own mind and aren't afraid to do things differently. Like our readers, we value honesty and integrity above outside influences.

With your support, we challenge the status quo, uncover crucial stories, and amplify unheard voices. If you like what we do, do take out a subscription and help support the best quality online-only journalism.

Daily briefing

Starmer delivers 'change' with focus on Generation Rent in King's speech

Sir Keir Starmer has laid the groundwork for a generational shift in British political priorities

Donald Trump would be 'strong and decisive' in support for Ukraine, says Boris Johnson

Prospect of second Trump presidency with isolationist JD Vance as his deputy have raised concern among allies of Kyiv

Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak laugh together weeks after Conservatives defeated

Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak were seen laughing together as they walked through the Houses of Parliament together

What else you need to know today

The Independent View

Politics explained

What will a Donald Trump and JD Vance presidency mean for the UK-US special relationship?

As the potential vice-president of the US brands the UK the world's first 'Islamist nuclear power', Sean O'Grady wonders what the future holds for diplomacy between the two countries...

Read more

MOST COMMENTED

Tomorrow inside the Westminster bubble

Our political commentator Andrew Grice on what to look out for

MPs assemble at 9.30am for a day of debate on the King's Speech. 

Meanwhile, Keir Starmer hosts European leaders for the European Political Community summit at Blenheim Palace. 

Covid-19 inquiry is expected to publish its report on Module 1, "resilience and preparedness".

The other big public inquiry, into the Post Office, takes evidence from Pat McFadden and Ed Davey, both former ministers for the Post Office.

QUOTATION FOR THE DAY

"On the government benches life comes at you fast… before you know it you end up with a bright future behind you and you are left wondering whether you can credibly be an elder statesman at the age of 44."

Rishi Sunak, offering advice to new MPs on the Labour benches

Quiz answer: Gary Barlow, Love Won't Wait

The Independent proudly partners with Refuge and the National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247

Join the conversation or follow us

Download the free Independent app

Please do not reply directly to this email

You are currently registered to receive The Independent's View From Westminster newsletter.

To unsubscribe from The Independent's View From Westminster newsletter, or to manage your email preferences please click here.

This e-mail was sent by Independent Digital News and Media Ltd, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH. Registered in England and Wales with company number 07320345

Read our privacy notice and cookie policy