Keir Starmer erwartet, die englischen Stars zu ehren, wenn sie die Weltmeisterschaft gewinnen

Sir Keir Starmer is expected to bestow honours on the men’s England football team if they secure victory in the upcoming World Cup, according to Labour sources. This potential gesture would mark a notable shift from his earlier stance against issuing traditional resignation honours lists, a position he maintained amid criticism of past governments. If the Three Lions reach the final, Starmer is anticipated to personally acknowledge standout performers, potentially including a knighthood for captain Harry Kane and a major award for rising star Jude Bellingham. Other key players, such as Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, who represent his preferred club Arsenal, may also receive recognition. Starmer, known for his deep interest in football, has expressed personal enthusiasm for the World Cup, even joking in his final Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) about having an “important meeting with my television at 8pm” when England faces Argentina in the semifinal. His attendance at the final in New York, at the MetLife Stadium, is expected if England progresses to the final. Despite his initial pledge to avoid a resignation honours list, recent developments suggest a possible reversal, with Labour insiders indicating that the excitement surrounding the World Cup has influenced his decision. The potential honours list would include recognitions for players and possibly managers, drawing parallels to past awards following successful campaigns. For instance, Harry Kane and former manager Gareth Southgate received MBEs after the 2018 World Cup run. Even if England fails to reach the final, key contributors might still be acknowledged in the New Year’s honours list. Starmer has also hinted at declaring a bank holiday to commemorate a World Cup victory, further underscoring the significance he attaches to the event. Meanwhile, tensions within the Labour Party have resurfaced, with former leader Jeremy Corbyn criticizing Starmer for making false claims about the party being “institutionally antisemitic.” Corbyn accused Starmer of perpetuating misrepresentations, pointing to a lack of evidence for such a charge. The controversy echoes past disputes, with Corbyn noting that Starmer has previously fabricated financial bankruptcy allegations to bolster his political narrative. These accusations come as Starmer prepares to step down, with Andy Burnham set to assume leadership at a Labour conference. In contrast, the PMQ session concluded on a relatively cordial note, with colleagues expressing emotional farewells and acknowledging Starmer’s contributions. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch praised his efforts on Ukraine and his relationship with President Zelensky, while Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey lauded his patriotism. The session, held shortly before the World Cup semifinal, featured lighthearted exchanges and references to the ongoing by-election in Clacton, where Reform UK’s Nigel Farage is contesting despite a boycott by major parties. As Starmer prepares to transition out of office, the focus remains on both his legacy and the unfolding World Cup. A farewell gift, a vintage silver carriage clock crafted in the 1920s, was presented to him by his cabinet, symbolizing the end of an era. With the stage set for potential honours and political reflections, the coming days will likely bring further attention to both the sporting triumphs and the political shifts shaping the nation.