Sir Keir Starmer has said he is hoping for peace in the Middle East in his first Christmas message as Prime Minister.

The Labour leader also said he was looking towards a ‘brighter future’ after a turbulent start to his time in power that has seen riots after the Southport murders, a flatlining economy and a backlash to his Government’s first Budget.

He will enjoy his first holiday since the July election, spending Christmas at the PM’s official country residence of Chequers, before going abroad with his wife and two children over New Year.

It comes after allies of his told The Mail on Sunday that he ‘badly needs a holiday’ owing to the ‘relentless strain’ of the job.

Sir Keir, the first openly atheist PM, said last night: ‘As Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Christmas story reminds all of us to reach out to one another. To care for one another.

The Labour leader also said he was looking towards a ‘brighter future’ after a turbulent start to his time in power

Smoke rises after the Israeli army launched an attack on the Jabalia area in northern Gaza on December 18

Search and rescue operation continue following Israeli attacks on house belongings the Abu Semra family in Deir al-Balah, Gaza

‘This Christmas, I will be hoping for peace, particularly in the Middle East as the birthplace of the Christmas story.

‘I’ll be looking towards a better, brighter future for every person and celebrating the joy and wonder that Christmas brings.’

He singled out for thanks those in the NHS, emergency services, Armed Forces and charities who will spend the season serving others.