Starmer’s Emotional Final PMQs
In his final prime minister’s questions (PMQs) session, Keir Starmer delivered an emotional defence of his record as prime minister, largely avoiding political jabs in favour of tributes and questions, many focused on the World Cup.
Answering the last question, with his voice breaking at times, Starmer paid tribute to those he had worked with during his two years in office, which will conclude on Monday when he hands over to Andy Burnham.
“This will be my last answer from this dispatch box. Every prime minister knows when they take up the torch that the day will come when they have to pass it on. That day has come for me. This is the end of my political journey.”
The session was observed by his wife and children, as well as members of the public whose lives intersected with policy areas, including Jaguar Land Rover workers and parents campaigning for a social media ban for children. Starmer concluded:
“Can I wish you good health and happiness to all those in the gallery whose lives have been changed or improved by this government, and all across the country who struggle to be seen or heard. You’re the reason I came into politics. To my wife and children, I love you. Goodbye.”
The farewell was met with cheers and applause from many MPs, which ended when the Speaker, Lindsay Hoyle, reminded the Commons that applause is discouraged in the chamber.
Tributes and Support
Early in the session, Starmer expressed being “truly horrified” at the death of an MP and suggested granting her a shield in the Commons, similar to those for Jo Cox and David Amess, who were murdered while serving.
When asked for advice to Andy Burnham and the England football team ahead of their World Cup match on Wednesday evening, Starmer responded:
“For my successor and for the England team, I won’t give advice. I will simply give my wholehearted support.”
Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, set aside her usual confrontational approach to ask Starmer about various topics, including whether the country deserved a televised debate between Nigel Farage and another figure ahead of the Clacton by-election.
Starmer replied: “My advice to everyone is: put your vote in the bin.”
Defending His Record
In response to a more serious question about a previous comment that “when he pulled the levers, nothing happened” in No 10, Starmer launched a defence of his government’s achievements.
“We did pull the levers. We pulled the levers to stabilise the economy, and we’ve stabilised the economy. We pulled the levers to strengthen our public services, and NHS waiting lists are coming down at the fastest rate for 17 years.
We pulled a big lever on child poverty, and this government will be doing more on child poverty than any government ever, including previous Labour governments. We put the biggest investment into defence and security, and our international standing has been restored.”
Appreciation and Personal Reflections
In her final question, Badenoch thanked Starmer’s family “for the love and support they have given him throughout his time in office,” acknowledging the sacrifices political families make.
Starmer responded by thanking Badenoch for her private kindness during difficult times, including when his family faced personal tragedies.
Even Reform UK’s deputy leader, Richard Tice, offered a light moment by noting that under Starmer’s tenure, the England men’s football team had the best win record of any UK prime minister.
Conversely, Reform MP Danny Kruger, who defected from the Conservatives, criticised Labour for not fielding a candidate in Clacton. Starmer replied:
“I know that Reform believe in recycling politicians.”
Final Tribute from Labour MP
The final question was posed by Labour MP Carolyn Harris, who, fighting back tears, praised Starmer for revitalising the party after its 2019 election defeat.
“Today, because of his service and his leadership, children are growing up in a fairer Britain. We stand tall on the world stage, and every day we’ve seen his decency and his courage shine through.
Can I thank him and his wonderful family, on behalf of me and my family, for their cherished friendship, and I am certain everyone will join me in wishing him and his family the very, very best for their next chapter.”
