Keir Starmer has delivered a message of “peace and love” in his Christmas address to Britons.
The Labour leader took the opportunity to thank NHS, retail and postal workers as they continue to deliver viral services over the festive period.
Churches were also the subject of tribute as Starmer recognised their ability to help people with nowhere to go.
“Charity, humility and selflessness take centre stage in the Christmas story”, he said.
Keir Starmer has delivered his Christmas message
X / LABOUR PARTY
“This season serves as a reminder that these qualities should be a guiding light for us.”
The Labour leader thanked NHS staff “working around the clock to keep us healthy”.
Starmer delivered his Christmas message
PA
He also mentioned the military’s “steadfast commitment to our national security, which often means being away from loved ones”.
Starmer also thanked retail and hospitality workers in his festive message.
The aspiring prime minister said: “On behalf of the Labour Party, I send my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all of you for what you do. Happy Christmas, from my family to yours.”
It comes as Rishi Sunak has put the spotlight on those “facing a difficult time” in the UK and around the world in his festive message.
In what will likely be his final message before the election, the Prime Minister praised NHS workers, the police and “our amazing armed forces”.
Sunak said he wanted to reflect on the “Christian values at the heart of this celebration of Christ’s birth”.
He added: “Christmas is a time of peace, joy, compassion, a time of hope and promise of a better world.
“Today we look ahead, let’s keep that promise of a brighter future burning into the new year.
“Wherever you are, whatever you are doing for the festivities, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.”
Sunak and Starmer are set to face off in the general election, which is expected to take place in the early stages of next year.
