Starmer Marks End of Political Career at Final PMQs with Standing Ovation

Sir Keir Starmer delivered his final Prime Minister's Questions, reflecting on his political journey and receiving cross-party tributes before handing over leadership to Andy Burnham.

Starmer Reflects on Political Career at Final Prime Minister's Questions

Sir Keir Starmer addressed MPs, stating it was the

"end of my political journey"

and expressing pride in his accomplishments during his final Prime Minister's Questions before stepping down.

The 50-minute session saw a temporary pause in usual political confrontations, with members from all parties paying tribute to the outgoing Prime Minister, exchanging jokes, and sharing personal stories.

Emotions ran high among some of Sir Keir's closest supporters, with the departing PM acknowledging his staff, who he said had been

"prepared to walk through fire for me"

As he exited the chamber, Sir Keir received a standing ovation from his own MPs and many opposition members, while his family observed from the gallery.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves, seated beside Sir Keir on the front bench, appeared visibly moved. Labour MP Carolyn Harris also became emotional, telling MPs that

"every day we see his decency and his courage shine through"

Transition to New Leadership

Sir Keir is scheduled to hand over leadership to Andy Burnham on Monday, following Burnham's confirmation as Labour leader at a special conference on Friday. Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor, has been absent from PMQs sessions since his return to Parliament last month.

Cross-Party Tributes and Remarks

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch refrained from criticizing Sir Keir's record, instead commending his efforts regarding Ukraine and his friendship with President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, Badenoch directed some remarks toward Labour MPs and their incoming leader, questioning Burnham's readiness to face parliamentary questions rather than

"scurrying away for the summer"

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey praised Sir Keir for his collaborative approach across the House of Commons, describing him as a

"true patriot"

Guests and Personal Messages

Among those watching were several guests invited by the Prime Minister, including campaigners he had met during his tenure. Addressing them directly, Sir Keir said:

"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."

Arrival and Atmosphere in the Commons

Despite being ousted by his own MPs just two years after a landslide victory, Sir Keir received cheers from Labour benches upon entering the House of Commons. The session's tone was notably gentler and more light-hearted than usual, featuring jokes about England's World Cup prospects and the Clacton by-election.

The session began solemnly with Sir Keir paying tribute to former MP Ann Widdecombe, noting it was

"chilling"

that three serving or former MPs had died during his time in Parliament. Badenoch honored Widdecombe as a woman of

"high principle"

and a

"wicked sense of humour"

Political Exchanges and Future Outlook

Badenoch used her questions to challenge whether Burnham should face parliamentary questions sooner, highlighting the upcoming parliamentary recess starting Thursday, which would delay Burnham's participation until September. She cautioned Labour MPs that changing the prime minister was not a

"silver bullet"

and that

"their troubles are only just beginning"

When asked if he had advice for his successor, Sir Keir did not respond directly but promised his

"wholehearted support"

, adding:

"I will give my support privately if asked for, not publicly when not asked for."

He also thanked Badenoch for her kindness following the death of his brother and an arson attack on his family home.

Light-Hearted Moments and World Cup References

The PMQs took place eight hours before the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, resulting in numerous references to the match. Conservative MP Graham Stuart joked that Sir Keir had been given the

"red card" by "400 dodgy referees"

. Liberal Democrat MP Will Forster asked if Sir Keir's final act would be to declare a bank holiday if England won, to which the Prime Minister replied he did not want to

"tempt fate"

and suggested being asked again on Sunday.

Clacton By-Election and Political Jabs

Several references were made to the Clacton by-election, triggered by the resignation of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. The main parties are boycotting the election, accusing Farage of staging a stunt by standing again in the Essex constituency. As a result, his opponents are mostly independent or novelty candidates.

Sir Keir advised voters in Clacton to