Starmer Delivers Farewell Outside Downing Street
Sir Keir Starmer gave his final speech as Prime Minister outside 10 Downing Street on 20 July 2026, before resigning and meeting King Charles III at Buckingham Palace. The outgoing Labour leader declared his 'work is done' and expressed pride in his government's accomplishments over the past two years.
Starmer noted that he took the Labour Party from a historic defeat in 2019 to a landslide general election victory in 2024, and said Britain is 'stronger and fairer' than it was two years ago. He cited a stronger economy, the biggest fall in NHS waiting times for 17 years, reduced immigration, and improved defence and international reputation.
Tributes to Public Servants and Family
In his speech, Starmer paid tribute to NHS workers, the Armed Forces, and volunteers, describing them as the 'greatest things of this country in action.' He thanked his wife Vic, his children, his team, and civil servants for their support. 'Politics will always be a team sport,' he said, crediting the Labour Party and staff for the changes delivered.
He also warned against division from enemies who 'will stop at nothing to divide us because of our values, our freedom, our decency,' and reaffirmed Britain's resolve towards Ukraine.
Passing the Baton to Andy Burnham
Starmer formally endorsed his successor, incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham, saying, 'I wish him every success. He has my full support.' He concluded: 'I go with good grace. I go with a smile, and I go proud of everything that we have achieved.'
The resignation marks the end of Starmer's tenure, which began with a landslide victory in 2024. His speech highlighted key achievements including lifting children out of poverty daily and reducing immigration significantly.
