We aim to create stability and opportunity

A strong economy is a key to making Brexit a success, and we hope to establish a fairer Britain for everyone

The next five years will be the most challenging that Britain has faced in my lifetime. Brexit will define us – our place in the world, our economic security and our future prosperity. So now more than ever, Britain needs strong and stable government to get the best Brexit deal for our country and its people.

That is why the manifesto we are publishing today is designed to confront the great challenges of our time. It is a commitment to take the big, difficult decisions that are right for our country in the long term.

Dealing with these challenges is dependent on having a strong economy. And under my leadership we will create that by making the most of our existing strengths, investing in infrastructure and people, and ensuring that our economy grows across the whole country.

We will deliver a smooth and orderly Brexit and forge a deep and special partnership with our friends and allies across Europe. It will allow our United Kingdom to emerge from this period of great national change stronger and more prosperous than ever before.

Since becoming Prime Minister last year I have always made it clear that we need to pull down the barriers that prevent people fulfilling their true potential in order to secure a better deal for ordinary, working people. But for too many people in this country, where you end up in life is still determined by where you were born and to whom. So our manifesto will make sure that everyone has the opportunity to make the most of their talents and hard work, whoever they are and wherever they are from.

It is also vital that the government in place after the general election responds to the reality of an ageing society. While always making sure that we are fair to younger generations, it is essential that we give people security in their old age and care for those with long-term health conditions. And for the sake of our economy, security and society, we must harness the power of fast-changing technology.

Rather than pursue an agenda based on a supposed centre ground defined by elites in Westminster, we will govern in the interests of the mainstream of the British public. The agenda we set out in the manifesto will restore the public finances and maintain economic stability.

We will reduce and control immigration and we will be resolute in defending the country from terrorism and other security threats. The Conservatives will run public services in accordance with their values as important local and national institutions. As I set out earlier this week, we will not only guarantee but enhance workers’ rights and protections. And we will develop our ambitious modern industrial strategy to get the economy working for everyone, across the whole of our nation.

None of this will be easy. It will require discipline and focus, effort and hard work.

On Tuesday, Jeremy Corbyn unveiled his shambolic manifesto and it immediately emerged that there is a £58 billion black hole in his spending plans. His numbers simply don’t add up and if he gets the keys to Downing Street after the election, every single family in the country will pay the price and face higher taxes and more debt.

Under my leadership, the Government will look forward and be confident that we have the vision and the plan to build a better Britain. It will be a stronger Britain where everyone has the economic security they need and the chance to live a secure and happy life. And it will be a fairer Britain that works for everyone, not just a privileged few.