At the stroke of noon on Wednesdays, the usual political drama of Prime Minister’s Questions unfolds as Big Ben chimes. Insults fly, boos echo, questions dodge, and sometimes reversals occur.
However, today in the chamber was a rare moment as rivalries took a back seat for Keir Starmer’s final appearance at the despatch box. In an emotional 45 minutes, close aides of the Prime Minister and top ministers were visibly moved as his tenure nears its end.
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, typically the Prime Minister’s adversary, set aside hostilities to exchange banter with Mr. Starmer, even poking fun at Nigel Farage. She even commended his leadership on Ukraine.
Highlighting the invitation to Ukraine’s leader Zelensky to No10, the Conservative leader recounted a past incident involving Donald Trump in the Oval Office. She also acknowledged the unwavering support Mr. Starmer received from his wife, Victoria, and their children present in the chamber.
The final heartfelt tribute came from Labour MP Carolyn Harris, a close confidante of the Starmers, who lauded the Prime Minister’s leadership and integrity.
Concluding his address, Mr. Starmer solemnly stated to the chamber: “Every Prime Minister understands that the time comes when they must pass on the torch. That time has arrived for me. This marks the end of my political journey.”
This departure was a stark contrast to Boris Johnson’s parting words at his last PMQs almost four years ago when he famously exclaimed: “Hasta la vista, baby.”
The most touching moment of Mr. Starmer’s farewell PMQs centered on the individuals off-camera to whom he paid tribute. Seated above in the public gallery of the House of Commons, these individuals inspired the initiatives of his Labour government, from combating knife crime to bolstering NHS funding.
Among them was Billie-Jean Daniels, a cancer survivor, who was instrumental in the PM’s reform agenda. Pooja Kanda, an advocate for knife crime reform, also received recognition for her relentless efforts following the tragic loss of her son, Ronan.
Additionally, Trevor and Luis, facing job uncertainties due to external pressures, and social media activist, Carla, were acknowledged for their contributions.
In a closing remark, Mr. Starmer expressed his gratitude: “To all those in the gallery whose lives have been touched by this Labour Government and to all those nationwide striving to be heard, you are the reason I entered politics.”
