Keir Starmer has lots of answers but none to the big questions that matter

THE Labour Party might insist it's wary of complacency in the run-up to a general election. But its leader is certainly growing in confidence.

- Kate Andrews

Labour's 18-point lead over the Conservatives will have undoubtedly energised Sir Keir Starmer as he stepped up to the podium at the Bristol and Bath Science Park last week to deliver his New Year's speech. The Labour leader indulged in the opportunity to present a rather broad vision for the future, with promises of "hope", "change" and his plan to "make a difference" signposting the 30-minute speech.

Sir Keir sounded resolute as he reiterated some of his pledges, including plans to achieve the highest growth among advanced economies and to get the NHS off its knees. What was missing from his speech, however, was any kind of information as to how he might go about making good on his promises.

The lack of policy detail wasn't surprising. This is, after all, the roadmap Labour has used for several years now to position itself as the clear frontrunner to win the next general election.

The tactic has been rather simple: stay vague, look credible. And it's been working, until now.

But Labour's advantage in the polls is about to become its headache, as the formal entrance into an election year means everyone wants to know what exactly the party would do if it were let back into No 10. Labour may quickly discover that it needs a revamped roadmap, as dodging questions becomes increasingly difficult to do.