Starmer says his political journey is over at his last question session as UK leader

Keir Starmer’s final Prime Minister’s Questions on 15 July 2026 marked the conclusion of his tenure as the United Kingdom’s leader. Following a week of farewell engagements, including a visit to France for Bastille Day celebrations, Starmer addressed the House of Commons one last time before his scheduled resignation on Monday.

During the session, Starmer reflected on his time in office. He noted his six years as Labour Party leader and his two years in government, asserting that he was leaving the nation in better shape than he found it. In his closing remarks, he stated:

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"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 characterized by a departure from the typical parliamentary combat. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch offered tributes to Starmer’s family and recognized his leadership regarding international support for Ukraine. Starmer, in turn, thanked Badenoch for the private kindness she extended to him during personal family crises. Labour backbenchers also expressed support, with Carolyn Harris praising his efforts in rebuilding the party following the 2019 general election.

Starmer opened the session by addressing the death of former Member of Parliament Ann Widdecombe, which is being investigated as murder. He described her as a distinguished politician and urged for increased efforts to defend democracy. He also highlighted the recent passage of the Hillsborough Law, which he described as ensuring the state serves working people.

Regarding his successor, Andy Burnham, Starmer declined to offer public advice, pledging instead to provide his wholehearted support. Burnham, who was not present in the chamber, is the sole candidate in the Labour leadership contest and is expected to be announced as the new leader on Friday. On Monday, Starmer is scheduled to travel to Buckingham Palace to formally tender his resignation to King Charles III.

Throughout the session, Starmer addressed his government’s record, defending his actions on the economy, public services, and defence spending. He also noted progress in migration statistics, including reported reductions in net migration and small-boat crossings, as well as the deportation of individuals without the right to remain. When challenged by Kemi Badenoch on whether his successor should face MPs before the summer break, Starmer remarked that he had answered or provided answers 2,800 times during his time at the dispatch box.

Outside of parliamentary business, Starmer spoke about his plans for the evening, which included watching the World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina. He joked about his commitment to an important appointment with the television at 8 pm. Earlier in the day, cabinet ministers presented Starmer with a carriage clock and two bottles of wine during his final cabinet meeting, which concluded with a standing ovation.

As the transition of power approaches, the Labour Party remains focused on the handover. While Starmer is expected to remain a backbench lawmaker, the political focus shifts to the incoming leadership. Burnham is anticipated to face his first session of Prime Minister’s Questions in early September 2026.