Miliband recalls 1914 truce in annual Christmas message

Ed Miliband has released his annual Christmas message, recalling the 1914 Western front truce – calling for “the same sense of compassion in the face of the suffering and hatred that afflicts parts of our world”:

“One hundred years ago soldiers on the Western Front stopped their hostilities to cross no man’s land, to shake hands and – famously – to play football.  In the midst of a tragic conflict the generosity, hope and sense of human solidarity that is characteristic of the Christian faith and culture came to the fore.  What an extraordinary and unexpected event. 

“We need the same sense of compassion in the face of the suffering and hatred that afflicts parts of our world.  And especially in the Middle East, the cradle of Christianity.  Let us remember those caught up in fighting and in fear of their lives. 

“I am proud that the Labour movement has such deep roots in the Christian tradition of social activism and solidarity in the United Kingdom. This Christmas, I want to pay tribute to all who spend time, effort and skill in serving the needs of their fellow citizens in a voluntary and professional capacity.

“Our country faces a choice next year.  Let’s choose generosity and inclusion. I hope you have a very merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year.”

Meanwhile, Scottish Labour’s new leader Jim Murphy urged Scots to put the referendum behind them to work together for the good of the nation:

“What has been an extraordinary year for Scotland is ending on a note of great sadness and pain.

“The tragic events in Glasgow on Monday mean that for those most closely affected, this time of year will be forever linked with loss and heart ache.

“It is a terrible ending to a remarkable year. 2014 saw the eyes of the world on our small country as we hosted the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles.

“We put on world class events that showcased Scotland to billions of people all across the world.

“And it has been a year like no other in politics. The referendum was passionate on both sides.

“It was exciting, a time when politics made a difference and people took part.

“And yes, of course, for one day in September we were divided by Yes and No.

“But as Scots we don’t look at what divides us but what brings us together.

“Whether we voted Yes or No in the referendum, we all want to build a fairer, better country.

“We are all proud of our nation’s history, because no country our size has ever shaped the world quite as much as Scotland.

“So let’s use that pride and passion to build the fairest nation on earth here in this land.

“Christmas is also a time to think of those less fortunate than ourselves.

“We think particularly of those families who are struggling to make ends meet and of those children for whom Santa will come via charity and the good will of their fellow Scots.

“I am sickened by the fact that our nation, as prosperous as it is, still relies on food banks but I am inspired by the fact there are so many good people who want to alleviate that hardship.

“Spare a thought, too, for the children of members of our Armed Forces who are stationed elsewhere and those children who are separated from a parent is in prison.

“This should be a period when together we think about how we can support children no matter the circumstance and regardless of family background.

“We also remember those who will be working over Christmas – our emergency services, those in the media and shop workers across Scotland.

“I want to wish everyone in Scotland the very best for Christmas.”