"UK PM Sir Keir Starmer admitted 'things have been tough' as he gave a decidedly downbeat New Year address to the nation from London on Wednesday. "Things have been tough in Britain for a while. For many, life is still harder than it should be. You long for a bit more money in your pockets, a meal out, a holiday, the chance to make a special family moment extra special," he said. He went on to insist that there would be positive change on the way, claiming bills would come down, healthcare would improve and there would be 'more police on the streets'. "With that change, decline will be reversed. That opportunity for you and pride in your community can be restored," he added. Starmer was elected in July 2024, and has been under increasing pressure for months from those within his own party, with many key ministers reportedly on manoeuvres to replace him in the New Year. This year's budget saw £26bn of tax rises, with energy bills soaring and latest figures showing the economy shrinking by 0.1% in October."