Sir Keir Starmer delivered his final Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, receiving a standing ovation from MPs as he concluded. With Andy Burnham set to replace him as Prime Minister, Starmer addressed the murder of Ann Widdecombe, the war in Ukraine, and offered support to his successor.
Tribute to Ann Widdecombe
Opening his final PMQs, Starmer expressed horror at the murder of Ann Widdecombe, calling her a 'distinguished politician with deep convictions' whose 'vivid and fearless character captured the public imagination'. He extended condolences to her friends and loved ones, and referenced the deaths of Jo Cox and David Amess, calling for similar tributes to be created for Widdecombe. He tasked officials with identifying mechanisms to defend democracy.
Support for Andy Burnham
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch asked if Starmer had any advice for Burnham. Starmer replied: 'I will give my wholehearted support to my successor. I want this Labour Government to be a success. I want our country to be a success. I shall give my support privately if asked for, not publicly when not asked for.' Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey joked about Toy Story, referencing 'Andy' being on everyone's lips, to which Starmer quipped about Davey's 'Chessington World of Adventures' campaign antics.
Ukraine and Trump Mentioned
Starmer recalled inviting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Downing Street after his confrontation with Donald Trump. He described the emotional moment when Zelensky was cheered by the British public, saying: 'I showed him what was in the street… they cheered from the top of their voices… that was a really emotional moment.' Starmer affirmed Britain's steadfast support for Ukraine.
Final Words and Standing Ovation
Starmer received a standing ovation from most MPs, though the Conservative bench remained seated. In his final words, he said: 'Every Prime Minister knows when they take up the torch that the day will come that they must pass it on. That day has come for me. This is the end of my political journey.' He noted the party's historic victory in 2024 and said he leaves the country 'in better shape than I found it'. He thanked colleagues, wished them health and happiness, and said: 'To my wife and children I love you. Goodbye.'
