Labour Leader to Open Conference with Tribute to Queen and the National Anthem
Keir Starmer has described the Queen’s passing as the “end of an era,” marking a profound moment in British history as he prepares to open the Labour Party’s conference with a tribute to the late monarch. The Labour leader was among the 2,000 mourners who attended the Queen’s state funeral at Westminster Abbey, reflecting on the immense legacy left by Queen Elizabeth II. He tweeted, “Today marks the passing of an era. The dignity, courage, spirit, selflessness, and good humour Her Majesty showed throughout her reign will always be with us. We are lucky to call ourselves Elizabethans.”
In a departure from tradition, Sir Keir will begin Labour’s four-day conference in Liverpool on September 25 with a heartfelt tribute to the Queen, followed by the singing of the national anthem. This marks the first time in recent history that such a tribute will be held at the start of the conference.
Despite reports suggesting that the event’s social elements might be toned down in respect for the Queen, a Labour source denied these claims, confirming that drinks receptions would still take place. Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats opted to cancel their conference out of respect for the period of national mourning. The Conservative Party, however, will proceed with their own conference in Birmingham from October 2.
Ahead of the funeral, Sir Keir spoke about the national outpouring of grief, stating that the past ten days had demonstrated the unity of the country. He noted that the public’s collective effort to pay respects was a testament to the United Kingdom’s strength, adding, “The public have been incredible – to see those queues, to see people everywhere across London. It showed the United Kingdom for what it really is, this fantastic country able to convene and bring people together.”
Reflecting on the recent political climate, he observed, “In politics recently we have spent so much of our time on the divisive, the divisions, and actually, you know what, when the nation gets the chance, it comes together. In the last 10 days that has been incredible.”
