British Prime Minister Gordon Brown stated that his main focus in 2008 would be addressing the global credit crunch and navigating through the financial instability. He emphasized that the current credit issue originating in America is now the primary challenge for all economies, and it is crucial to tackle it as a top priority. Brown expressed confidence in the strong economy as a solid foundation and vowed to lead with unwavering determination to ensure stability amidst the global financial turmoil. Despite facing criticism for government mistakes and economic challenges such as the Northern Rock crisis, Brown remained committed to steering the country through these difficult times. Northern Rock, a prominent victim of the credit crisis in Britain, has had to borrow a minimum of 25 billion pounds from the Bank of England. Prime Minister Brown and finance minister Alistair Darling have faced criticism for their handling of the crisis, but Brown remains optimistic that the economy will remain on track. Despite solid economic growth since the Labour Party took office in 1997, concerns have arisen due to declining house prices and consumer confidence, leading to fears of a slowdown in the coming year. Brown has assured that stability will not be compromised, pledging to maintain low interest rates by keeping inflation in check. He has also arranged a meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Nicolas Sarkozy in January to discuss financial market stability. Brown's initial popularity with voters quickly faded, and Labour now trails the opposition Conservatives by as much as 13 points in opinion polls. Controversies such as the tax agency losing personal data and secret donations to Labour have caused embarrassment for Brown. In his New Year's message, Brown promised significant changes for Britain in 2008, including new laws addressing energy, climate change, health, pensions, housing, education, and transport, as well as continued efforts to combat global terrorism.