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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday outlined a comprehensive five-point plan to shield the UK from the economic fallout of the ongoing Middle East conflict, stressing that the government will not be drawn into the war and that its focus remains on the national interest.
Addressing the nation, Starmer acknowledged that the conflict, now entering its second month, would have "impact on the future of our country," but reassured citizens that the UK is "well-placed to weather it" and aims to emerge stronger and more secure. Starmer emphasised that Britain's approach is guided by the national interest, particularly the importance of freedom of navigation in the Middle East. "We will not be drawn into the conflict. That is not in our national interest. And the most effective way we can support the cost of living in Britain is to push for de-escalation in the Middle East and a re-opening of the Strait of Hormuz which is such a vital route for energy," he said. The Prime Minister detailed a five-point plan to address the immediate crisis: Cutting energy bills by over 100 per household. Extending the cut in fuel duty until September, with daily monitoring of the situation. Supporting households using heating oil, with 53 million set aside to offset rising costs. Investing in clean British energy to regain control over domestic energy supply and reduce exposure to volatile international markets. Pushing for de-escalation in the Middle East, including diplomatic engagement and coordinated military planning to restore safe passage through key maritime routes. Starmer highlighted that these measures form part of a broader strategy to enhance the country's resilience. "Every one of these measures is part of a long-term plan to make our country more secure and more resilient to shocks like this," he said. He also cited other initiatives such as freezing prescription prices for a year, increasing the national living wage, raising the state pension, removing the two-child limit, and strengthening workers' rights. On foreign policy, Starmer noted that the UK has brought together 35 nations to support maritime security in the Gulf. "Later this week the Foreign Secretary will host a meeting that brings those nations together for the first time where we will assess all viable diplomatic and political measures we can take...to restore freedom of navigation, guarantee the safety of trapped ships and seafarers and to resume the movement of vital commodities," he said. Starmer further signalled closer cooperation with the European Union, citing the need for enhanced economic and security partnerships. "A partnership for the dangerous world that we must navigate together. A world where this Government will be guided, at all times, by the interests of the British people," he concluded. (ANI)
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