Rishi Sunak has urged folks to give attention to “the promise of a brighter future” – as celebration leaders delivered their Christmas messages.
The prime minister mentioned Christmas was “a time of hope” but it surely was necessary to recollect “those facing a difficult time”.
Mr Sunak, who’s a Hindu, highlighted the “Christian values at the heart of this celebration of Christ’s birth”.
He mentioned: “Christmas is a time of peace, joy, compassion. A time of hope and a promise of a better world.
“And as we speak as we glance forward, let’s preserve that promise of a brighter future burning into the brand new 12 months.”
Mr Sunak mentioned it was a “magical time of the year” and thanked NHS employees, police and the armed forces for “sacrificing their Christmases this year in the service of others”.
The Christmas message got here between strikes by junior medical doctors in England, with the longest walkout in NHS historical past on account of start on 3 January.
Mr Sunak will name a basic election in 2024 because the Tories attempt to maintain on to energy, with opinion polls at the moment suggesting a wholesome Labour lead.
‘Love and peace are all the time value advocating for’
Labour chief Sir Keir Starmer used his message to say the story of Jesus was a reminder that “in times of darkness and despair, hope, love and peace are always worth advocating for”.
He mentioned: “Throughout the Christmas period, we see the bonds of kinship rekindled as families and friends share in the joy, the hope and the optimism that Christmas provides.
“For Christians the world over, it is a time to rejoice within the start of Jesus Christ – God’s son.
“The birth of Jesus Christ brings light into our world and reminds us that in times of darkness and despair, hope, love and peace are always worth advocating for.
“Charity, humility and selflessness take centre stage within the Christmas story – and this season serves as a reminder that these qualities ought to be a guiding gentle for all of us.”
He thanked the NHS, Royal Mail workers, military personnel, retail and hospitality staff for their work over Christmas, and praised the “generosity of church buildings and charities”.
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Meanwhile, in his message, Liberal Democrat chief Sir Ed Davey mentioned: “We hold in our hearts those less fortunate than ourselves.
“And to those that, this 12 months, are with out family members over Christmas.”
And Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf said the cost of living crisis would also affect people’s Christmases.
“Christmas is a particular time of 12 months the place folks collect with their family members,” he said. “However, I do know for many individuals – many households in Scotland – it has been a difficult 12 months.
“And as we come together over the festive period, the cost of living will be on many people’s minds.”
Source: information.sky.com”