As Keir Starmer prepares to leave Downing Street in just over ten days, he has raised the possibility of issuing resignation honours, a move that contradicts his earlier commitments to eschew such practices. This development comes as Andy Burnham is set to succeed him as the leader of the Labour Party, following a significant surge in nominations.
A Shift in Stance
During his tenure as opposition leader in 2023, Starmer was vocal in his criticism of Rishi Sunak’s decision to permit Boris Johnson to bestow honours—including knighthoods—upon his political allies. At that time, Starmer stated, “There are other opportunities… It’s very hard to justify,” emphasising that he would not engage in similar practices when he eventually stepped down.
However, at the recent NATO summit in Ankara, when questioned about his previous pledge, Starmer refrained from outright rejecting the idea of a resignation honours list. Instead, he responded ambiguously, saying, “We’ll look at that in the usual course of things,” leaving the door open for potential nominations.
The Tradition of Resignation Honours
It is customary for outgoing prime ministers to nominate individuals for honours following their departure from office. However, these nominations require the approval of their successor and the House of Lords appointments commission. Rishi Sunak, for instance, faced criticism for endorsing Johnson’s resignation honours list, which included over 40 names, even amid ongoing parliamentary inquiries into Johnson’s conduct.
Liz Truss, who resigned after a mere 49 days in office, also received a resignation honours list from Sunak, further complicating the integrity associated with such awards. Starmer’s potential deviation from his earlier stance may once again reignite discussions regarding the appropriateness of political patronage in the honours system.
Burnham’s Path to Leadership
As the nominations process for the Labour leadership unfolds, Andy Burnham has garnered considerable support, securing 322 nominations—representing 80% of the parliamentary party. This overwhelming backing positions him as the frontrunner to assume the role in No 10. With only 81 Labour MPs remaining who could nominate another candidate, convention dictates that Starmer will not propose an alternative, effectively sealing Burnham’s ascent.
In a light-hearted nod to his past leadership bids, Burnham shared a brief video on social media, stating, “hopefully third time lucky,” referencing his previous attempts in 2010 and 2015. Starmer has expressed confidence in Burnham’s capabilities, asserting, “Yes, I do. I have known him a long time, I’ve worked with him when I first came to parliament, in his team directly.”
To be eligible for the leadership, a candidate must also secure nominations from at least 5% of local branches or three affiliated groups, including a minimum of two unions. Burnham has already received endorsements from notable unions such as Unite and the Fire Brigades Union.
Why it Matters
As Starmer’s potential decision on resignation honours looms, it raises critical questions about the integrity and transparency of the honours system within British politics. The implications of such choices extend beyond mere awards; they reflect on the principles governing political conduct and accountability. With a smooth transition of leadership on the horizon, the decisions made during this period will undoubtedly shape public perception and confidence in the Labour Party’s commitment to ethical governance.
