LONDON: Former finance minister Gordon Brown was confirmed on Wednesday as Britain's new prime minister after a private meeting with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.
He pledged to lead a "new government with new priorities," vowing "Now let the work of change begin" in his first comments after taking office.
"This will be a new government with new priorities and I have been privileged to have been granted the great opportunity to serve my country," he told reporters in Downing Street.
"At all times I will be strong in purpose, steadfast in will, resolute in action in the service of what matters to the British people, meeting the concerns and aspirations of the whole country," he added.
He was speaking outside the prime minister's official residence on his arrival from Buckingham Palace, where Queen Elizabeth II asked him to form a government shortly after accepting the resignation of Tony Blair.
Brown referred to the Scottish town of Kirkcaldy where he grew up, and which he now represents as a member of parliament (MP), citing his school motto, "I will do my utmost."
"I wouldn't be standing here without the opportunities that I received there and I want the best of opportunities for everyone. That is my mission.
"If we can fulfil the potential and realise the talents of all our people then I am absolutely sure that Britain can be the great global success story of this century," he added.
He concluded, "Now let the work of change begin" before heading through the polished black door of 10 Downing Street, his new office.
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AFP
