Sir Keir Starmer concluded his final Prime Minister's Questions with an emotional tribute to his family and a lighthearted dance, as the House of Commons set aside its usual rancour. Labour MPs Johanna Baxter and Carolyn Harris were visibly moved as they praised the outgoing leader, while Starmer himself appeared to fight back tears during his last answer.
Emotional Tributes and Lighthearted Moments
The session, held on July 15, 2026, was markedly different from the combative farewells of previous prime ministers. Unlike Boris Johnson's final PMQs, which ended with a theatrical 'Hasta la vista, baby!', Starmer's departure was characterised by genuine warmth. MPs from across the political spectrum toned down the often vicious atmosphere to wish the prime minister well after two years in one of the country's toughest jobs.
Starmer performed the 6-7 dance in response to a question about his viral moments, prompting roars of laughter from the chamber. Tory MP Jesse Norman was seen enjoying the moment particularly. The prime minister also paid heartfelt tribute to Ann Widdecombe, who was murdered last week, and joined Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey in calling for a permanent memorial to her in Parliament. Notably, neither of the two Reform MPs who spoke—Richard Tice and Danny Kruger—took the opportunity to pay their own respects.
Bipartisan Goodwill Despite Political Turmoil
Despite the country facing multiple crises, the final PMQs before a change of government was seen as an opportunity to demonstrate that politics is not solely about inflicting damage. Starmer acknowledged his appreciation for Tory leader Kemi Badenoch's phone calls after the arson attack on his home and the death of his brother. The prime minister's approval ratings had collapsed, and his party had resorted to a coup, but many MPs agreed that Starmer always tried to make choices he believed were right for the country.
Labour staff and campaigners in the gallery were seen wiping their eyes during the tributes. Even Nigel Farage has reportedly described Starmer as a 'decent man' off-camera. The event underscored the personal relationships that underpin parliamentary work, with many MPs genuinely committed to improving the country.
