Cabinet Office minister Nick Thomas-Symonds, a close ally of outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer, confirmed he missed Starmer's resignation speech on Monday due to a personal medical appointment for one of his children. Speaking to Sky News, Thomas-Symonds explained his absence from the Downing Street steps, where Starmer announced he was stepping down.
Reason for Absence
Thomas-Symonds told broadcaster Sophy Ridge: "The reason is quite simple. It was a medical - it was a personal appointment for one of my children, but otherwise, I would have been there and I certainly will have been there." The minister, who entered Parliament in 2015 after a career outside politics, has been a steadfast ally of Starmer.
Starmer's Decision to Step Down
Thomas-Symonds revealed he knew Starmer was preparing to resign after discussions with him. "It was very clear, from those discussions with him, that he was always going to put the country first in this scenario, and that is precisely what the prime minister did yesterday," he said. "It was a very dignified statement."
Support for Andy Burnham
The Cabinet minister also addressed the potential premiership of Andy Burnham, the former Greater Manchester Mayor who was sworn in as Makerfield's new MP. Thomas-Symonds expressed full backing for Burnham to succeed Starmer. "First of all, we have a job of delivery to do in the second half of the Parliament. I think comprehensively we agree that he brought delivery. It's thinly the question about the next general election and defeating Andy Burnham comprehensively and making you feel that you can do that. We've seen him winning an election, so I'm backing Burnham. And yes I look forward for a swift transition."
Public Reaction
Viewers shared mixed reactions on social media. One said: "I find it amazing that Andy Burnham has seemingly walked into No.10 without much fuss at all." Another commented: "Brexit is the biggest own goal in British history." A third added: "Andy is not a conservative though."
