As England’s men’s football team approaches the World Cup final, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly preparing to bestow honours upon the squad should they clinch victory. This move marks a significant shift in his stance on resignation honours, which he had previously vowed to forgo amidst controversies surrounding past administrations.
Honouring the Heroes
Labour insiders have disclosed that Starmer aims to personally recognise key players, including a potential knighthood for captain Harry Kane and a prominent award for standout performer Jude Bellingham. Other notable players such as Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, who play for Starmer’s cherished Arsenal, may also be included in this recognition.
One senior Labour figure remarked, “Keir is definitely not going to leave honouring the England football team to Andy Burnham; he wants to do that himself.” This statement underscores Starmer’s commitment to celebrating the achievements of the national team, reflecting his personal enthusiasm for football.
A Shift in Stance
This anticipated honouring of the football squad represents a notable reversal for Starmer, who, in 2023, explicitly stated he would not issue a resignation honours list when he left office. At that time, he had drawn comparisons to former Prime Minister Tony Blair, asserting, “It’s very hard to justify. There are other avenues for that, and I think it’s easier to be clean about this and simply say, no, I wouldn’t do it.”
Starmer’s tenure as Prime Minister has been characterised by numerous policy reversals, including controversial decisions regarding winter fuel payments for the elderly and changes to welfare policies. As he navigates this final chapter of his premiership, it appears that the excitement surrounding the World Cup has prompted a reconsideration of his earlier position.
The Final Countdown
Should England reach the final on Sunday, Starmer’s last official act as Prime Minister may involve travelling to New York to witness the match live at the Metlife Stadium. However, Downing Street has remained vague on whether Starmer will adhere to his original plan regarding honours.
A Labour source suggested, “I think the football has changed his mind,” indicating the influence of sporting triumph on political decisions. Even if England does not advance to the final, previous tournaments have seen players like Kane and former manager Gareth Southgate recognised in the New Year’s honours list following impressive performances.
A Celebration of Success
During Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), discussions centred around the World Cup, with MPs lauding Starmer as his premiership draws to a close. Reform deputy leader Richard Tice highlighted that England’s 76 per cent win rate under Starmer is the highest of any Prime Minister in history. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that Starmer might emulate former Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson by leading the country to World Cup glory.
Starmer himself quipped, “England only wins world cups under Labour,” and has already announced plans for a bank holiday celebration if the team triumphs on Sunday.
Why it Matters
This unexpected pivot from Sir Keir Starmer illustrates the intricate relationship between politics and national sentiment, particularly in the realm of sports. As the nation rallies behind the England football team, the Prime Minister’s decision to honour their potential success not only reflects his personal passion for the game but also serves as a strategic move to align with the public’s enthusiasm. In a time of political scrutiny and challenge, such gestures may bolster Starmer’s legacy and leave a lasting impression on the electorate as he prepares to step down.