Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves were spotted at a pub with drinks in hand just hours after leaving Downing Street. The former Prime Minister and Chancellor arrived at The Pineapple pub in Kentish Town, north London, while ex-Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham put together his Cabinet.
Rather than appearing downtrodden, photographs published today showed the pair in seemingly good spirits. Mr Starmer was seen chatting and texting on the phone while holding a pint of beer. Another snap showed the father of two leaning by the door after putting his pint down and speaking to someone on the phone.
The Pineapple Pub
The Pineapple brands itself as northwest London's "beloved back street boozer." In addition to a selection of pints and spirits, the pub also offers Thai food, although it is unclear if any of the ex-Prime Minister's team ate there.
Just hours before leaving Downing Street, Mr Starmer said his "work is done." He added: "I go with a smile and I go proud of everything that we have achieved." The outgoing Prime Minister said he wished Mr Burnham "every success" before exiting Downing Street.
Rachel Reeves at the Pub
At the pub, Ms Reeves was surrounded by friends and colleagues while sipping wine. The former Chancellor was also seen being embraced by one of her aides. Ms Reeves had reportedly been offered the role of Defence Secretary by Mr Burnham, but she ultimately declined the offer.
Ms Reeves was the first female Chancellor in British history, but her position became uncertain after it became clear Mr Burnham would become Labour Party leader and, later, Prime Minister.
Reeves' Social Media Statement
Ms Reeves said on social media after leaving Downing Street: "It has been the privilege of my life to serve as the Chancellor of the Exchequer. The economy today is stronger, fairer and more resilient because of the choices we have taken as a Labour Government over the past two years."
She added: "Stability restored, investment delivered and reform to our economy under way. I said when I was appointed Chancellor that I would judge my time in office if the lives of ordinary working class people have been improved. I’m proud to say that they have."
Ms Reeves concluded: "And to every young woman and girl let my time in office show there should be no ceilings on your ambitions, your hopes or your dreams. I wish the very best of luck to my successor, Andy and his cabinet. You have my full support, and I will continue to play my part in helping this Labour government deliver the change the country needs."
