Keir Starmer's beloved younger brother dies
PM Keir Starmer has paid tribute to his younger brother, who has died aged just 60. Nick Starmer, who developed learning difficulties after complications during his birth, passed away on Boxing Day. The prime minister said his younger brother was “a wonderful man” who “met all the challenges life threw at him with courage and good humour”.
He said in a statement: “We will miss him very much. I would like to thank all those who treated and took care of Nick. Their skill and compassion is very much appreciated." An official added that Nick had been battling cancer. Keir and his family were thought to be about to take a holiday but will now stay at home.
The prime minister's official spokesperson for the prime minister said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Nick Starmer. Nick, 60, died peacefully on the afternoon of December 26 after battling cancer. We ask for privacy for Nick’s wider family at this time.”
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Nick is said to have suffered complications during major surgery in 2022 which left him needing life-saving care. Sir Keir left local elections campaigning that year to visit him in hospital on several occasions. He later thanked medics who saved his brother's life, telling them: "I hope you know what it means to me and my family."
He spoke about his relationship with his brother in a biography by Tom Baldwin last year, saying: "Nick was dealt a different set of cards to me - problems I've never had to face." He added that their parents treated them the same, with his dad explaining: "Nick has achieved as much as you, Keir."
