Keir Starmer: The British PM who got India-UK FTA over the line

Keir Starmer: The British Prime Minister Who Secured India-UK FTA

Keir Starmer, a former human rights barrister, was elected as Britain's Prime Minister in a decisive July 2024 victory. His administration is notable for finalizing the long-awaited India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a milestone he had championed since taking office.

FTAs and Leadership

Just days before his resignation announcement at 10 Downing Street, Starmer met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G7 Summit in France. The two leaders agreed to implement the FTA on July 15, a move expected to strengthen the £48 billion bilateral trade relationship.

"It's not just a piece of paper, it's a launchpad for growth. With India set to become the third-largest economy globally by 2028, trade with them will soon be faster and more affordable, unlocking unprecedented opportunities," Starmer remarked during a visit to Mumbai in October 2023.

Political Rebirth and Reforms

Starmer's rise to power marked a dramatic shift for Labour, which had faced a significant setback in the December 2019 elections. His leadership has since revitalized the party, focusing on policies like housing development, economic growth, and NHS reform.

A key priority during his campaign was restoring Labour's ties with British Indians, who felt sidelined under former leader Jeremy Corbyn due to perceived anti-India stances on issues like Kashmir. During a visit to the Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Kingsbury, Starmer emphasized his commitment to combating Hinduphobia in Britain, a message he has consistently reiterated in public appearances.

From Law to Politics

Before entering politics, Starmer spent decades in the legal field, earning a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to law and criminal justice. He first served as an MP in London in 2015 and later held the role of shadow Brexit secretary under Jeremy Corbyn, advocating for a united Labour Party vision.

Starmer's early political career saw him play a secondary role to Rishi Sunak in televised debates, often described as lacking the natural charisma of his Tory counterpart. However, his Oxford education and experience as Director of Public Prosecutions under a Labour government equipped him with a sharp legal mind and rhetorical agility.

Personal Roots and Resilience

Born in London to a toolmaker father and an NHS nurse mother, Starmer grew up in Oxted, Surrey. His mother, Josephine, passed away from Still's disease shortly before he was first elected, shaping his resolve to honor her perseverance and his father's work ethic.

The 63-year-old leader, married to Victoria, an NHS worker, keeps his two teenage children away from the political limelight. Starmer often cites his parents' influence, crediting his mother for her tenacity and his father for instilling a values-driven approach to public service.