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UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has thanked public servants for their ‘selflessness’ – expressing his gratitude for ‘sacrifices’ made during an ‘extraordinary year’.
While the prime politician would traditionally broadcast a message to the nation on Christmas, Sunak skimped on the usual way – instead opting to call workers directly to say thanks.
It is reported by the PA News Agency that the PM made calls to four workers and the crew of a naval ship.
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Footage from the messages was published today, during a Christmas dubbed at risk of cancellation by widespread bouts of industrial action from National Health Service (NHS) nurses, postal workers and transport networks. Meanwhile, Labour lead Sir Keir Starmer used his Christmas message to stand in solidarity with Ukraine, following their ongoing war with a neighbouring Russia.
Wales Online reports that Rishi’s first two months in office saw him firstly attempt to rectify economic meltdown created by predecessor Liz Truss, before facing wave after wave of industrial action. Royal Mail strikes disrupted Christmas deliveries, while strikes on the railway and Border Force front affected nationwide traffic and travel.
Members of the UK Military were handed £20 bonuses for standing in for striking workers.
Nurses are now said to be planning two further walkouts next month, running consecutively – adding to the already mounting pressure on the NHS, through previous nursing and ambulance staff action.
In a statement, PM Rishi, said: “Whether you are working in Mogadishu or Milton Keynes this Christmas, I want you to know that I am personally grateful for your sacrifice.
“This year has been an extraordinary year for so many reasons, but most of all, it’s been a year in which the true spirit and resilience of the United Kingdom has been on show, from the support given to our Ukrainian friends, to the work being done to ensure essential aid reaches the most vulnerable overseas.
“And closer to home, those who have checked on friends and neighbours, volunteers, public servants and essential service staff all working over Christmas – I am truly humbled by your dedication and I know your selflessness this festive season will spread cheer across the country.”
Sir Keir on the other hand reflected on Ukrainian hardship, as Russian President Vladimir Putin continues his attempted invasion of the neighbouring country. He said: “I hope this Christmas is a joyous and relaxing time for you, however you are spending it. I’m looking forward to sharing time with my family, away from the day to day of work.
“But as I do I will be keeping in my heart all those who are working to keep us safe. Those looking after the less fortunate, and our friends in Ukraine, facing the horror of Putin’s appalling attacks. Their struggle for freedom inspires us all.”
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