Keir Starmer will address the nation today for the final time as Prime Minister, with his midday appearance at Prime Minister's Questions marking the end of his tenure. The 63-year-old announced last month he would step down after a devastating set of local election results, which triggered mounting pressure from Labour MPs demanding a leadership change in favour of Andy Burnham.
Final PMQs and Transition
Starmer's last PMQs will see him face Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who is expected to offer a friendly tribute to the outgoing PM, following the customary tradition of respect regardless of party loyalty. Starmer is likely to highlight what he considers his achievements during his time in office, while Badenoch will take a conciliatory tone.
Andy Burnham is set to become Prime Minister next Monday, July 20, after winning the Labour leadership unopposed. Burnham secured 349 nominations from Labour MPs, including an additional 27 on Monday, July 13, making it impossible for any other candidate to reach the 81 endorsements required to challenge him. Almost 80% of the Parliamentary Labour Party formally nominated Burnham last week.
Burnham's Path to Power
Burnham's rise followed a by-election victory for the Makerfield seat, which allowed him to enter Parliament. With 322 out of Labour's 403 MPs backing him, and more expected to nominate, no other challenger could meet the threshold. A special party conference on Friday is expected to formally confirm Burnham as Labour leader, paving the way for him to become Prime Minister three days later.
Starmer's final hours in charge could coincide with England potentially winning the World Cup, which might prompt him to announce a bank holiday before departing. However, the focus remains on the transition of power as Brits express relief with the change, with many saying 'good riddance' to the outgoing PM.
