Starmer says foreign trips can help ease cost-of-living crisis

Keir Starmer told Labour MPs that being present at international trade and defence talks supports the UK economy and could help address the cost-of-living situation; he has made more than 40 overseas trips since taking office and faces internal pressure to spend more time on domestic issues.

Keir Starmer defended his frequent overseas visits at a meeting of the parliamentary Labour party, arguing that his presence at international trade and defence talks will have economic effects at home. He said isolationism will not solve the cost-of-living situation and that being at negotiations is necessary for outcomes on issues such as Ukraine and trade. The prime minister has made more than 40 international trips since entering office. Some Labour MPs and advisers want him to spend more time in the UK amid public concern about the party's handling of living costs. Key points: - Starmer told MPs he needs to be present at international negotiations on trade and security because those talks can affect the domestic economy. - The article reports he has made more than 40 international trips since becoming prime minister. - Some members of his party and advisers want him to prioritise time in the UK to address domestic issues. - The government is treating 2026 as a "year of proof," and Starmer used a more upbeat tone about change and renewal. - The piece notes international crises in Venezuela, Greenland and Iran have disrupted his new-year plans. - A YouGov poll cited put the Conservatives ahead of Labour, with Labour at 17% and both parties reported behind Reform. Summary: Starmer presented overseas engagement as linked to securing trade and security outcomes that could help the UK economy and sought to reassure MPs about progress on domestic priorities. Undetermined at this time.