Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has praised the work of Christian communities across the UK, highlighting the vital role of faith in supporting society and guiding people through times of uncertainty.
An Easter reception at 10 Downing Street took place on Monday night during Holy Week, and began with a prayer led by popular social media priest, Rev Chris Lee. Opening remarks and the introduction of the Prime Minister were delivered by Christian Labour MP Florence Shalomi.
Addressing the attendees, Sir Keir said: “It’s really good to have all of you here right in the centre of government. This is literally where everything gets decided… and to have you here seems very fitting to me. We’re a government that serves you, and it’s right that you are here and can influence what we’re doing.”
Thanking church leaders, volunteers and local congregations, the Prime Minister added: “Everything you do proves the complete opposite of those who want to divide us.”
He continued: “So, I say thank you for what you do. It is Christ’s example, but it’s also reinforcing positive evidence of the sort of country we really are. Actually, give us half a chance, and we will look after each other. We saw it so much during Covid, but we see it every day, particularly at weekends, when people happily give up their time for others.”
On the challenges facing the nation, including rising living costs and the conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, he noted that he sees faith playing a crucial part in helping people in difficult times.
“I do obviously appreciate that this Easter is tinged with anxiety for many people," the Prime Minister said. "They don’t like to see what they’re seeing on their screens — explosions, countries getting drawn in, infrastructure being destroyed… And they also worry about the impact it’s going to have on them as individuals, families and households.
“I’m a great believer that when the world is uncertain and people feel anxious, faith plays a really special part. People need something that can help them, that can guide them and anchor them.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted government action on social issues, including lifting the two-child benefit cap “so that we don’t have children growing up in poverty anymore,” and bringing down energy bills by about £100 per household.
The event was held on the same day he hosted a roundtable discussion at Number 10 with business leaders on how to minimise the impact of the conflict in Iran.
Reflecting on the Church’s role in society, the Prime Minister said: “It’s incredibly valued and valuable work, and I think we should mark that because what you’re doing is supporting people, bringing the country together, and reflecting the compassion and service that are at the heart of Christ’s example. It’s really important we make that link.”
The event also celebrated the recent installation of Sarah Mullally, the first woman to hold the position, with the Prime Minister saying: “To see the Church assembled in that way from across the world was phenomenal. Many of you will have watched it with real hope and inspiration for the future.”
He added: “Archbishop Sarah and I have spoken previously about how important it is that we talk to each other and have a proper partnership. Government and faith should not be two separate things operating in separate spheres. Many of the values we hold are the same, and therefore we should be trying to work in partnership wherever we can.”
Concluding the Easter reception, the Prime Minister said: “I do want to work with you to create a stronger, more cohesive society… I wish you, and Christians across the UK and around the world, a very happy Easter.”
Earlier in the day, children attending the event enjoyed an Easter egg hunt in the White Room. The Prime Minister acknowledged the children and their families, saying: “It was amazing to see the children in the White Room — the room where we host international leaders. Seeing their joy was really uplifting.”
