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U.K. General Election 2024 Highlights
Labour Party Wins Election in a Landslide
Angela Rayner Named Deputy PM, Rachel Reeves Takes Finance in Keir Starmer’s Cabinet
Keir Starmer posted a video saying, “Watch my first speech as Prime Minister.” Video available in bottom
London, July 5, 2024 – The United Kingdom has witnessed a significant shift in its political landscape as the Labour Party, under the leadership of Keir Starmer, secured a landslide victory in the 2024 general election. This historic win marks Labour’s return to power for the first time since Tony Blair’s era.
The Labour Party is projected to achieve a significant victory in the 2024 UK general election, with some polls suggesting they could win over 400 seats. This would be one of the largest majorities in recent history, surpassing even Tony Blair’s landslide victory in 1997. According to a YouGov poll, Labour is forecasted to secure 422 seats, which would result in a massive 194-seat majority
Starmer Becomes Prime Minister
After the ceremonial “kissing of hands” with King Charles III, Keir Starmer was officially appointed as Prime Minister. He is now tasked with forming a majority government following the Labour Party’s sweeping victory.
Key Appointments in Starmer’s Cabinet
- Angela Rayner: Appointed as the new Deputy Prime Minister and also taking on the role of Secretary for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities. Rayner’s appointment is seen as a significant move, considering her background and experience as a trade union official and lawmaker.
- Rachel Reeves: Named Chancellor of the Exchequer, becoming the first woman to hold this prestigious position. Reeves, a former Bank of England economist, faces the daunting challenge of managing the country’s finances, addressing the large national debt, and fulfilling Labour’s promises of economic growth and public service investment.
- David Lammy: Appointed as Foreign Secretary.
- Yvette Cooper: Named Home Secretary, responsible for immigration and policing.
- John Healey: Appointed as Defense Secretary.
- Pat McFadden: Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, the most senior minister in the Cabinet after the Prime Minister.
Election Results and Reactions
The Conservative Party, led by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, faced a historic defeat, losing over 240 seats. In his concession speech, Sunak acknowledged the “sobering verdict” delivered by the British electorate. This election result ends the Conservative Party’s 14-year rule.
Notable Wins
- Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, won a seat after seven unsuccessful attempts in previous elections.
- Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader, retained his seat as an independent MP in North London.
Challenges Ahead for Labour
Labour’s victory comes with substantial challenges, particularly in addressing the underfunded National Health Service (NHS) and other critical public services. Political analyst Tim Bale from Queen Mary University of London emphasized the need for substantial funding and strategic economic management to meet public expectations and improve infrastructure.
Rachel Reeves’ Statement
Rachel Reeves, the new Treasury chief, acknowledged the tough road ahead, stating, “I know that the road ahead will not be easy. There are no quick fixes, and the hard choices lie ahead.”
As Labour begins its governance, the focus will be on revitalizing public services and managing economic difficulties, with new leaders like Angela Rayner and Rachel Reeves at the helm.
