New PM Keir Starmer promises to 'rebuild' hope and opportunity in the UK

Sir Keir Starmer has given his first speech as the new UK prime minister (PM)..

He said his government would rebuild hope and opportunity in the UK "brick-by-brick" and would show people that "politics can be a force for good."

"Our country has voted decisively for change and a return of politics to public service," he said.

This morning former prime minster Rishi Sunak gave his final speech outside 10 Downing Street before handing over to Sir Keir.

Sir Keir Starmer began his speech by thanking former prime minister Rishi Sunak, saying that his achievement in becoming the first British-Asian PM of this country should not be "underestimated by anyone", and recognised the "dedication and hard work" he brought to the job.

He also spoke about what he sees as a gap in trust between people and politicians, leading to "weariness in the heart of a nation", and a draining away of a "belief in a better future".

He added that "this lack of trust can only be healed by actions not words".

"We can make a start today with a simple acknowledgement that public service is a privilege and your government should treat every single person in the country with respect."

Mr Starmer also spoke about improving schools and building affordable homes - things that "working class families like mine can build their lives around".

He ended by saying that his government would fight until voters "believe again", adding that change would take time, but that the "work is urgent and we begin it today".

Before he gave his speech, Sir Keir Starmer also paid a visit to the King at Buckingham Palace where he was officially invited to create a new government.

It's a formal ceremony, traditionally known as "kissing the hands", although no hands or rings are kissed these days.

The King was also visited by former prime minister Rishi Sunak this morning who handed in his formal resignation after giving a speech outside Downing Street.

The first thing on Prime Minister Starmer's to-do list was to appoint his cabinet.

The cabinet is a team of senior ministers in the government chosen by the prime minister to lead specific areas like health, defence and the environment.

On 9 July, the newly elected MPs will gather in the House of Commons in Westminster.

The Speaker of the House of Commons must be elected before MPs are sworn in, and Charles III will then formally open parliament with the King's Speech on 17 July.