We need a government that’s on the side of working people

NEW Year is a time for hope.

And in Britain we have much to be optimistic about.

Every day in my job I’m blown away by the people I meet.

The ambition and confidence of our young people.

The brilliance of our businesses. The potential of our towns and cities. Over Christmas, our army of brilliant key workers worked round the clock.

They ensured our presents were delivered and our fridges were stocked.

At home and abroad, they kept us safe. And – of course – they got vaccines into millions of arms.

But this is also a time of year when we resolve to do better. As we enter 2022, too many people feel uncertain and worried. Taxes are going up. Inflation is rising. Energy bills are going through the roof. Some are choosing between heating and eating.

It feels like hard work no longer pays. But it doesn’t have to be this way. What our country needs is a government that is on the side of working people.

Yesterday, I set out a contract with the British people.

It’s based on three simple ideas to deliver a New Britain that really matter to me: Security. Prosperity. Respect.

As a former Director of Public Prosecutions, I know that tackling crime is just one part of making our country secure. People need to know the NHS will be there when they need it and that they are safe in their job.

But creating strong foundations for our country is only half the challenge.

We need to ensure everyone has the tools to build the future they want.

That’s what prosperity means – spreading opportunity across the country, so that people can fulfil their ambitions for themselves and their children.

And finally respect.

Too many people in our country don’t feel listened to. And too many towns and communities are ignored by

Westminster. It reminds me of my dad. Because he worked on a factory floor all his life, he felt others looked down on him.

In the Britain I lead, everyone will be treated equally and with dignity. They will be respected.

It’s why the Government’s corruption – exposed by this newspaper – makes me so angry.

At a time when we all need to pull together, there can’t be one rule for the residents of Downing Street and another for the rest of us.

Boris Johnson’s government is out of touch, out of ideas and out of control.

My promise this New Year is that I’ll show you have an alternative.

A New Britain: bound by security, prosperity and respect.