Starmer Holds Final Prime Minister's Questions Before Handover

Sir Keir Starmer held his final Prime Minister's Questions session in the House of Commons on July 15. The 50-minute exchange included tributes, jokes and anecdotes from MPs across party lines. Starmer told the chamber that the occasion marked the end of his political journey and that he remained proud of everything he had achieved.

He thanked his staff, saying they had been prepared to walk through fire for him, and paid tribute to former MP Ann Widdecombe. He also noted that it was chilling that three serving or former MPs had been killed during his time in Parliament. Labour MP Carolyn Harris said every day his decency and courage shone through.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch praised his work on Ukraine and his friendship with President Volodymyr Zelensky. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey called him a true patriot who had worked across the House of Commons. Starmer received a standing ovation from Labour MPs and many opposition members as he left the chamber.

His family watched from the gallery. Starmer thanked Badenoch for her kindness after the death of his brother and an arson attack on his family home. He promised his successor wholehearted support given privately if asked.

Starmer is due to hand over power to Andy Burnham on Monday, July 20, after Burnham is confirmed as Labour leader at a special conference on Friday, July 17. The Commons rises for recess on Thursday, July 16. Badenoch asked whether Burnham should take questions rather than scurrying away for the summer.