In a poignant farewell at his final Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starmer declared that it marked the “end of my political journey”, expressing pride in his accomplishments during his tenure. This 50-minute session was marked not by the usual political hostilities, but rather by an atmosphere of camaraderie, as MPs from across the aisle paid tribute to the outgoing Prime Minister, reminiscing over shared experiences and heartfelt anecdotes.
A Sentimental Send-Off
As Sir Keir prepared to pass the baton to Andy Burnham, who is set to be confirmed as the new Labour leader at a special conference on Friday, emotions ran high in the House of Commons. His closest allies, including Chancellor Rachel Reeves, struggled to hold back tears as they listened to him reflect on the challenges and successes of his time in office. Starmer’s gratitude towards his staff was palpable when he remarked that they had been “prepared to walk through fire for me.” The session culminated in a standing ovation from both Labour MPs and some opposition members, with his family proudly watching from the gallery.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, typically a fierce critic, refrained from attacking Starmer’s legacy, instead commending his efforts regarding Ukraine and his relationship with President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, she did not miss the opportunity to take jabs at Labour MPs, particularly at Burnham, who was notably absent from the session, a recurring theme since he returned to Parliament last month. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey echoed the sentiments of many, dubbing Starmer a “true patriot” and acknowledging his collaborative spirit across the Commons.
Reflections on Legacy
In his closing remarks, Starmer reached out directly to constituents and campaigners present in the gallery, saying, “To all those in the gallery whose lives have been changed or improved by this Labour government, and all across the country who struggle to be seen or heard, you’re the reason I came into politics.” His speech was not without a touch of melancholy as he began with a tribute to former MP Ann Widdecombe, reflecting on the chilling reality of violence against politicians, a stark reminder of the risks inherent in public service.
Despite being ousted by his own party just two years following a landslide electoral victory, Starmer was greeted with enthusiastic cheers from Labour members as he entered the chamber. The tone of the session was notably lighter than usual; jokes about England’s World Cup aspirations and the upcoming by-election in Clacton peppered the discourse, creating a sense of unity amidst the farewells.
The Future of Labour
As the House prepares for recess, Badenoch used her questions to highlight concerns regarding Burnham’s impending leadership, suggesting that simply changing the Prime Minister would not resolve Labour’s ongoing challenges. Starmer’s response to her pointed inquiries lacked specifics but conveyed his commitment to supporting his successor privately. His words of thanks to Badenoch for her kindness during personal tragedies underscored the complexities of political relationships, even among rivals.
The session featured playful exchanges, as Conservative MP Graham Stuart joked about the PM being handed a “red card” by “400 dodgy referees,” while Liberal Democrat Will Forster cheekily suggested a national bank holiday should England emerge victorious in the World Cup. The banter provided a fitting backdrop to Starmer’s departure, blending levity with the gravity of political life.
In a gesture of appreciation, cabinet members, led by Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy, presented Sir Keir with a vintage silver carriage clock during his final cabinet meeting. The clock, crafted in the 1920s, came with an engraved plaque that read, “Change promised, change fought for, change delivered. Thank you Keir – The Cabinet,” a testament to his leadership amidst turbulent times.
Why it Matters
Sir Keir Starmer’s exit from the political stage signifies more than just the end of an era for the Labour Party; it encapsulates the shifting dynamics within British politics. His journey, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, resonates with the broader narrative of a party grappling with its identity amidst a changing electorate. As Andy Burnham steps into leadership, the challenges ahead will test not only the resilience of Labour but also the commitment to address the pressing issues facing the nation today. The departure of a leader like Starmer invites reflection on the balance between principled politics and the pragmatic demands of governance, a theme that will undoubtedly shape the Labour Party’s future.
