During a visit to Welland Academy in Peterborough, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was captured on video encouraging first graders to perform the controversial ‘6-7’ hand gesture, which has become a symbol of protest in recent times. The gesture, commonly associated with various social movements, led to Star’ter’s public apology when he was advised by the school that the activity was against their policies. This incident has raised questions about the role of political figures in school environments and the potential influence of public figures on young students.
The video, which has since gone viral on social media, shows Starmer interacting with students during lunchtime, where he appears to have prompted the gesture. School officials confirmed that the activity was explicitly prohibited, prompting Starmer to express regret for not adhering to the school’s guidelines. While the exact context of the gesture remains unclear, its association with protest movements has led to speculation about Starmer’s intentions.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of public officials in educational settings. Critics argue that such actions could send mixed messages to children, while supporters defend the Prime Minister’s attempt to engage with students in a more informal manner. Despite the controversy, Starmer has maintained a neutral stance, emphasizing the importance of respectful interactions in schools.