UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has faced controversy after encouraging first graders to perform a viral gesture during a school visit, leading to a swift apology. The incident occurred on Monday when the PM met with students at Welland Academy in Peterborough, England, during a lunch break. Starmer, who is known for his down-to-earth approach, was seen encouraging the children to mimic a viral internet gesture, which was later revealed to be against the school’s rules.
When informed by a teacher that the gesture was not permitted, Starmer quickly issued an apology, stating, ‘I didn’t start it, Miss,’ in an attempt to downplay the situation. While his public response was seen as lighthearted, the incident has raised questions about the appropriateness of political figures engaging in such behavior during school visits. The PM’s office has not yet issued a formal statement on the matter, though it is expected to address the issue in the coming days.
The incident has sparked a mix of reactions on social media, with some praising Starmer’s efforts to connect with young people and others criticizing the lack of discretion. While the gesture itself is harmless, the controversy highlights the challenges faced by public officials in balancing personal engagement with professional boundaries. For now, the focus remains on the PM’s apology and the school’s response to the incident.