Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered his farewell address to MPs in the House of Commons on Wednesday, expressing pride in having left the country in better shape than he found it. The speech marked the end of his political journey, as he prepares to hand over leadership to his successor.
Final Question from a Close Friend
Carolyn Harris, a Labour MP and close friend of Starmer, posed the final question. She recalled that few believed he could make the changes needed when he became leader. “But 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,” Harris said.
Starmer thanked Harris for her comments and their friendship, then began his farewell: “This will be my last answer from this despatch 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.”
From Historic Defeat to Historic Victory
Starmer reflected on his tenure, noting the transformation from a historic defeat in 2019 to a historic victory in 2024. “In six years, we went from historic defeat in 2019 to historic victory in 2024, and in two years in government I leave the country in better shape than I found it. I’m proud of everything that we have achieved,” he stated.
He extended thanks to various groups, including House staff, constituency office workers, civil servants, and his political team. “To my political team, many of them here today, who came on this journey with me, thank you so much for everything you have done, and being prepared to walk through fire for me,” he said.
Gratitude and Support for Successor
Starmer praised his Labour colleagues, saying, “To my colleagues on these benches, I am proud of all we have achieved together and proud of each and every one of you. To my successor, and each of you, I will give my full support.” He also wished all MPs good health and happiness.
Addressing citizens watching from the gallery and across the country, he emphasized their role as his motivation: “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.”
Personal Farewell
Starmer concluded with a personal note to his family: “To my wife and children, I love you. Goodbye.” His departure marks the end of a six-year leadership that saw Labour rise from a crushing defeat to a general election victory, and a two-year premiership focused on delivering change.
