In a dramatic start to his premiership, Sir Keir Starmer's first hours in Downing Street were marked by an unexpected security incident that required police intervention. The newly elected Prime Minister, who had just delivered his triumphant victory speech mere hours earlier, found his new official residence at the centre of a potential breach.
Sussex Police were summoned to the iconic black door of No. 10 following reports of an unauthorised individual attempting to gain access to the compound. The incident occurred during the critical transition period as Starmer and his team began settling into the premises that would serve as both home and office for the coming years.
Swift Police Response at Britain's Most Secure Address
According to official statements, security protocols were immediately activated when the suspicious activity was detected. Officers from the Metropolitan Police, who maintain a constant presence around the Downing Street complex, responded within minutes alongside their Sussex counterparts.
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister confirmed the incident had been "swiftly and professionally handled" by parliamentary and diplomatic protection officers, with no disruption to the day's planned activities. The individual involved was reportedly removed from the vicinity without further incident.
Historic Transition Amid Unprecedented Security
The security scare came during what should have been a purely celebratory period for the Labour leader, who had just secured a landslide victory in the general election. Starmer had spent the morning meeting with civil servants and beginning the complex process of governmental transition.
Simultaneously, the new Prime Minister was finalising his cabinet appointments, with Angela Rayner confirmed to serve as both Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. This dual role marks a significant consolidation of power for one of Labour's most prominent figures.
Business as Usual Despite Early Challenges
Despite the unexpected security incident, Downing Street officials emphasised that the Prime Minister's schedule proceeded without interruption. Starmer conducted his first bilateral call with U.S. President Joe Biden, discussing renewed commitments to NATO and the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the constant security challenges facing modern political leaders, particularly those entering government during times of significant political change. Security experts note that transition periods often present heightened vulnerabilities as new teams establish protocols and familiarise themselves with procedures.
As investigations into the security breach continue, the Metropolitan Police have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the safety of the Prime Minister and the Downing Street complex, stating that all necessary measures remain in place to prevent future incidents.
