Sir Keir Starmer marked the conclusion of his political journey during his final Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) on 15 July 2026, declaring himself “proud of everything I have achieved.” The session, lasting 50 minutes, was characterised by a rare spirit of camaraderie as MPs from both sides took the opportunity to pay their respects and share fond memories.
A Fond Farewell
As he delivered his farewell address, tears were evident among Starmer’s closest allies, notably Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who sat beside him on the front bench. Starmer expressed heartfelt gratitude to his staff, whom he acknowledged had been “prepared to walk through fire for me.” The atmosphere in the chamber shifted as he concluded, receiving a heartfelt standing ovation not only from Labour MPs but also from several opposition members, while his family observed from the gallery.
Labour MP Carolyn Harris, visibly moved, commended Starmer for his “decency and courage,” highlighting the qualities that endeared him to many throughout his tenure.
Transition of Leadership
Starmer is set to hand over the reins to Andy Burnham on Monday following the latter’s expected confirmation as Labour leader at a special conference scheduled for Friday. The transition comes after a tumultuous period marked by a significant loss of support within his own party. Despite facing challenges, Starmer was greeted with enthusiasm by Labour members as he entered the Commons.
In a notable departure from customary hostilities, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch refrained from criticising Starmer’s record, instead commending his contributions to Ukraine and his friendship with President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, she did take jabs at Labour’s future, questioning Burnham’s absence during the session and warning that changing leadership would not resolve the party’s ongoing issues.
Light-Hearted Moments Amidst Sombre Reflections
While the tone of the final PMQs was largely light-hearted, it began with sombreness as Starmer paid tribute to former MP Ann Widdecombe. He noted the chilling reality that three MPs had been killed during his tenure, prompting Badenoch to honour Widdecombe’s legacy as a woman of “high principle” with a “wicked sense of humour.”
The session was peppered with banter relating to the upcoming World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, with Conservative MP Graham Stuart jokingly attributing Starmer’s red card to “400 dodgy referees.” Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey labelled Starmer a “true patriot,” praising his collaborative spirit in the Commons.
Starmer directed his remarks to the gallery, addressing campaigners whose lives had been positively impacted by Labour’s governance, reiterating that they were the reason for his entry into politics.
A Parting Gift
In a gesture of appreciation, cabinet members, led by Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, organised a farewell gift for Starmer—a vintage silver carriage clock from the 1920s, made by the same firm responsible for constructing Big Ben. The clock, presented during Starmer’s final cabinet meeting, carried an engraved plaque that read, “Change promised, change fought for, change delivered. Thank you, Keir – The Cabinet.”
Why it Matters
Starmer’s departure signals a pivotal moment for the Labour Party as it embarks on a new chapter under Burnham’s leadership. The emotional tributes paid during his farewell underline not only the complexities of his tenure but also the deep connections forged within Parliament. As Labour prepares for the challenges ahead, the transition brings a mix of hope and uncertainty, with many observing whether Burnham can galvanise the party and restore its fortunes in the political landscape.
