Starmer calls for 'community over division' in Easter message while addressing 'real anxiety' in UK over Middle East war
The Prime Minister pledged his Government's commitment to tackling cost-of-living crisis caused by the conflict
Britain is best when it chooses "community over division," the Prime Minister has said in his Easter message to the nation.
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In his speech from Downing Street, Sir Keir Starmer also acknowledged a moment of "real anxiety" as the UK economy continues to feel the brunt of the Middle East conflict.
The PM said faith could offer "reassurance and grounding" at a time of uncertainty, while paying tribute to churches across the country for supporting families and bringing people together.
Starmer said: "In times when some seek to divide, the Government is committed to working across faiths and differences to build a country that is more resilient, inclusive and connected.
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"Britons are braced for a cost-of-living squeeze as conflict in the Middle East and a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, through which around a fifth of the world’s oil and gas is shipped, sends global oil prices skyrocketing.
"Fuel duty is frozen until September, with the increase scheduled for then under review as a result of the high prices, and average household energy bills are predicted to rise when Ofgem’s current price cap expires at the end of June."
He added: "Easter is a celebration of hope, new life and renewal. Across the country, churches and Christian communities quietly and tirelessly support families, children and neighbours, offering comfort, bringing people together, and standing alongside those who need it most.
"It is precisely that spirit of service which exemplifies national renewal, and reflects the very heart of Christ’s example.
"This Easter comes at a time of real anxiety for many people. Conflicts abroad, pressures at home, and uncertainty about the future weigh heavily on families and households.
"In moments like these, faith offers reassurance and grounding – a reminder that we are not alone, and that hope can still take root even in difficult soil."
He continued: "Our country is at its best when we choose community over division, kindness over indifference, and service over self‑interest.
"I thank everyone who gives their time through churches and Christian charities, and wish Christians across the UK and around the world a very happy Easter filled with peace, hope and the promise of new life."
The war in Iran sent fuel prices rising by record prices in March, according to analysis.
The RAC said the average price of a litre of petrol at UK forecourts rose by 20p from 132.8p on March 1 to 152.8p on the last day of the month.
Drivers of diesel vehicles suffered an even bigger price hike, with the average cost of a litre of the fuel soaring by 40p from 142.4p to 182.8p over the same period.
The increases surpassed the biggest monthly jumps of 17p for petrol in June 2022 and 22p for diesel in March 2022, which followed Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.