News / Politics
Keir Starmer delivers major new year speech in South Glos
Keir Starmer appeared calm and collected as he rose to the stage just north of Bristol to deliver a speech on Thursday to kick off what is likely to be a general election year.
The Labour leader spoke of national renewal, stamping out cronyism and corruption, and toughening up on law and order..
Starmer delivered his speech from the National Composite Centre at the Bristol & Bath Science Park, located in the constituency of Filton & Bradley Stoke, a key marginal seat for Labour.
Despite secrecy surrounding the event, a number of pro-Palestine protesters had gathered outside the building in Emersons Green.
Bristol mayor Marvin Rees was among those confronted by protesters as he left after Starmer’s speech.
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The technology centre represented a clear link to Starmer’s promise of technological innovation under his government if he were to win the next general election.
Claire Hazelgrove, Labour candidate for Filton & Bradley Stoke, introduced Starmer on Thursday morning, assuring voters there was no one “more dedicated to building a better Britain”.
She added: “Coming from a family of teachers, NHS workers and RAF service members, I have long believed in stepping forward to serve others.”
Marvin Rees and West of England metro mayor Dan Norris were sat in the front row for Starmer’s speech alongside a number of local Labour MPs, and University of Bristol vice chancellor, Evelyn Welch.
Speaking afterwards, Norris said: “How great to hear some optimism about how we get the country back on track. An optimistic plan, and very very focused on getting growth. Fantastic speech.”
Outside the building, a number of pro-Palestine protesters had gathered outside the entrances to the building shouting, “Keir Starmer, you can’t hide. You’re supporting genocide.”
Rees and Bristol North West MP, Darren Jones, were both confronted by protesters as they left the building.
A number of protesters were cleared away by police but some attempted to block the road as Starmer was leaving.
Main photo: Sky News
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