PM attacks the 'snake oil charm of populism' as he outlines bid for growth

SIR Keir Starmer today vowed to resist the “snake oil charm of populism” and return to “serious government” as he revealed Labour’s first legislative programme in more than 14 years centred on reviving economic growth.

- Jitendra Joshi

After his landslide win over Rishi Sunak’s Conservatives, the new Prime Minister used his first King’s Speech to vow “security, opportunity, prosperity and justice for every person” as he unveiled a packed agenda for the next parliamentary year encompassing 40 items of legislation.

“Our plan starts, as it must, with our economy,” Sir Keir said. “The economic chaos working people have endured since the mini budget [of Liz Truss] will never happen again with my Labour Government.”

More broadly, the PM stressed the need to restore public trust in the political process.

“Rebuilding our country will not happen overnight. The challenges we face require determined, patient work and serious solutions, rather than the temptation of the easy answer,” he said.

“The snake oil charm of populism may sound seductive, but it drives us into the dead end of further division and greater disappointment. This King’s Speech returns politics to serious government, returns government to service, and returns service to the interests of working people. That is the path of national renewal. We start that journey immediately.”

Despite his continuing treatment for cancer, the King came in a carriage procession to oversee the pageantry of his second State Opening of Parliament accompanied by the Queen celebrating her 77th birthday.

Following the traditional summoning of the Commons by Black Rod, the new PM and Mr Sunak trooped across to the Lords at the processional head of MPs — including 335 who have been elected for the first time — to hear the King open the 2024-25 session.