Keir Starmer is set to participate in his final Prime Minister’s Questions session today as he gets ready to bid farewell to Downing Street. Before facing his last round of questioning in the Commons at noon, the outgoing leader will hold farewell discussions with his senior ministers at number 10.
Meanwhile, Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister-in-waiting, will move closer to assuming his new role as nominations for the Labour leadership officially close today. He is anticipated to engage with Tory leader Kemi Badenoch and confront challenging hand-over inquiries.
During his remaining days in office, Sir Keir is emphasizing his accomplishments, such as his support for initiatives like the Hillsborough Law and the government’s aid to Ukraine. He expressed his commitment by stating, “I will stand with you and walk with you for as long as I’ve got breath in my body.”
The tone of today’s PMQs may differ from the usual combative atmosphere, with historic rivalries possibly taking a temporary backseat. The SNP has announced plans to celebrate Argentina ahead of the World Cup semi-final, while observers anticipate football enthusiast Keir Starmer to extend well wishes to the Three Lions.
In a symbolic gesture, the SNP intends to commemorate two years since Argentina recognized Scotch Whisky with Geographical Indication status, coinciding with the World Cup event. SNP MSP George Adam remarked on the occasion, emphasizing unity among Scottish households in acknowledging the historic milestone.
Ministers have started arriving at Downing Street for Keir Starmer’s final cabinet meeting, with Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, Darren Jones, observed entering no 10 as the transition process unfolds.
Andy Burnham is poised to move closer to assuming the role of Prime Minister as nominations for the Labour leadership officially close. Having secured overwhelming support from 349 MPs, Burnham is now on track to succeed Keir Starmer in No10 next week, rendering it unfeasible for any competing candidate within the Labour ranks to meet the required threshold.
Reflecting on the progression since his first PMQs session in 2024, Keir Starmer’s tenure has been eventful, with today marking his departure from office after a tumultuous two years in power. The focus is expected to be on his achievements, notably the successful passage of the Hillsborough Law through the Commons in his final week.
As the day unfolds, Keir Starmer will bid farewell to the chamber, acknowledging the tragic passing of Ann Widdecombe and emphasizing Parliament’s finest moments. Andy Burnham’s absence at PMQs signifies this as Starmer’s final opportunity before the forthcoming transition period.
Ahead of relinquishing his duties, Keir Starmer’s final week in office includes engagements such as attending Bastille Day celebrations in Paris and overseeing the passage of the Hillsborough Law. The legislative milestone, aimed at delivering justice for the 97 victims of the Hillsborough disaster, holds significant importance as Starmer’s term nears its end.
