The opposition leader,addressing party members in Liverpool in England’s north-west – a part of the country that often touts itself as “scouse,not English” – said he was proud to lead a tribute to the late Queen.
“Between the history we cherish and the history that we own,she was the thread,a reminder that our generational battle against the evil of fascism and the emergence of a new Britain out of the rubble of the Second World War don’t only belong to the past,but are the inheritance of each and every one of us,” Starmer said.
“[She was] an example that taught us that whatever challenges we face,the value of service endures.
“As we enter a new era,let’s commit to honouring the late Queen’s memory. Let’s turn up our collar and face the storm,keep alive the spirit of public service she embodied. And let it drive us toward a better future.”
Those in the conference centre stood and held one minute’s silence for the Queen before singing the anthem that now carries her son’s new title.
The Union flag features heavily at this year’s party conference,appearing on stage as part of the official backdrop where shadow ministers have given set-piece speeches,as well as around the venue.