10 Things You Didn't Know About Keir Starmer - UK's Likely Prime Minister

July 5, 2024

SAURAV PANDEY

Early Life

Born in 1963 in Surrey, to a working-class family.

Source: AP

Family Background

His father was a toolmaker and had a distant relationship with him; his mother, a nurse, battled a chronic illness.

Source: AP

Name Origin

Named after Keir Hardie, the founder of the Labour Party.

Source: AP

Legal Career

Spent over 30 years focusing on human rights, notably defending prisoners facing the death penalty in the Caribbean and Africa.

Source: AP

Pro Bono Work

Provided free legal services to activists opposing McDonald's environmental claims.

Source: AP

Knighthood

Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to criminal justice but rarely uses the title "Sir."

Source: AP

Political Career Start

Entered politics at 52, elected as MP for Holborn and St Pancras in 2015.

Source: AP

Shadow Brexit Secretary

Rose quickly in politics, serving as shadow Brexit secretary under Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Source: AP

Healthcare Policy

Plans to reduce NHS waiting lists by increasing weekly appointments.

Source: AP

Education Policy

Promises to recruit 6,500 teachers, funded by ending tax breaks for private schools.

Source: AP