David Cameron sets out his 2016 priorities in New Year's message

Francesca Stevens4 January 2016

David Cameron has said the UK is in "one of the great reforming decades" as he delivered his New Year's message.

The Prime Minister set out his priorities for 2016, promising action to boost home ownership, tackle poverty, improve social mobility and end discrimination.

Mr Cameron said: "These are the big challenges of our age, some of the biggest our nation has ever faced and this year is a test of our mettle - whether we put up with poverty or put an end to it; ignore the glass ceiling or smash it; abandon the tenant or help make them a homeowner; appease the extremist or take apart their ideology piece by piece.

He also pledged to crack down on Islamic State sympathisers, and challenge the "poisonous narrative" which has led some Britons to turn against their country.

The Prime Minister said: "When our national security is threatened by a seething hatred of the West, one that turns people against their country and can even turn them into murderous extremists, I want us to be very clear: you will not defeat us."

On Europe he said he is negotiating hard and hopes to reach agreement with EU leaders at a February summit in Brussels, hinting that the promised referendum could be held this year if he secures a deal.

He said: "There is just one thing that drives me: what is best for the national interest of our country?

"But in the end it will be for you to decide: is our economic and national security in a dangerous world better protected by being in or out?"

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn used his New Year message to claim 2016 would put his party on course for government.

He said that 2016 "will be the start of a journey to deliver a Labour government in 2020 - a Labour government that will deliver a fairer, more just, more prosperous society that we can all enjoy".

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron used his message to argue "Britain deserves better" as he criticised the Conservatives and Labour for being divided parties.

Mr Farron said his party would enter 2016 with a "a new sense of purpose, a new drive and a sense of ambition".

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