Sir Keir Starmer is optimistic that the support of England fans for the Lionesses can bring unity to a country that has been divided. He is endorsing The Sun’s initiative to encourage children to participate in football.
He wished the squad good luck as they prepare to defend their title in the Euros next month in Switzerland.
Captain Leah Williamson handed the PM a shirt emblazoned with “STARMER 10” at St George’s Park.
The PM said the Lionesses will help boost national pride after last summer was rocked by rioting.
“That’s one of the amazing things about football,” he told The Sun. “That sense of getting behind your country, being part of your country.
“It’s a moment for the whole country to come together, but also for a legacy for the country.”
He praised our Footie for All campaign helping to protect kids’ clubs hit hard by the cost-of-living crisis.
The drive, alongside Tesco, distributed 300k worth of grants to children’s grassroots football.
It was backed by England legends Millie Bright and Rachel Daly as well as Jarrod Bowen and Phil Foden.
Sir Keir also revealed how his 14-year-old daughter had been inspired by the Lionesses.
The PM said: “I could see her getting drawn in because it was women’s football, and she could relate to it in a different way.”
It comes as ministers unveiled a major £900m fund to help grassroots sport and international events.
It will mean more pitches, pools and changing rooms for villages and towns.
Schools will also have to publish their sports clubs and activities for kids to shine a light on whether girls are getting the same access as boys.
The PM praised the Lionesses for their campaign to get girls equal access to sport.
And wished them good luck for the tournament: “The whole country is behind you.
“Not only have you made history, but you have inspired the next generation to find a sport they love.”
England and Wales face each other on July 13, at 8pm UK time, with both nations in Group D alongside France and the Netherlands.
The Lionesses will face France on July 5 at 8pm, while Wales play the Netherlands at 5pm.
On July 9, England will play the Netherlands at 5pm while Wales face France at 8pm.
The semi-finals are set to take place on July 22 and 23 at 8pm UK time, with the final on July 27 at 5pm.
The Lionesses made history when they beat old rivals Germany at a Wembley final 2-1 in 2022.
PROUD OF BECKS
Sir Keir congratulated David Beckham on his knighthood.
The Prime Minister said he was really proud of the England legend – even though he didn’t play for his beloved Arsenal.
“He’s been an iconic footballer,” the PM told The Sun. “Absolutely brilliant.
“Particularly in that England role, but also the other stuff that he’s done since he’s stopped playing football professionally.”
The footie legend, 50, became a ‘Sir’ in the King’s Birthday Honours list.
