Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer defended his administration's achievements during his final Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, claiming he leaves Britain in a better state than when he assumed office two years ago.
Taking his final session at the House of Commons dispatch box, Starmer stated his administration had successfully stabilized the nation's economy, boosted defense capabilities, and restored international standing following Labour's 2024 general election victory.
"I'm proud to leave this country in a better shape than I found it," Starmer said.
His final session was attended by his wife, Lady Starmer, and Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who appeared tearful during the proceedings.
Starmer led Labour to a 411-seat victory in July 2024, but his premiership faced multiple scandals, resignations, and policy shifts.
Starmer emphasized his work in reforming the Labour Party structure before taking office, citing efforts to combat anti-Semitism and rebuild public support that ultimately yielded a major electoral mandate.
"And I picked up our party, I turned it round, I made a promise to rip anti-Semitism out of my party, and I did.
I turned my party to face the country and we won a landslide for Labour at a general election," Starmer said.
Addressing the domestic record of his government, Starmer highlighted specific policy investments made during his two years in power.
"And after two years, we've stabilised the economy, we have invested heavily in our public services, we've put better protections in for children, particularly on child poverty, we strengthened our defence and we've enhanced our international reputation," Starmer said.
Regarding his political future, Starmer pledged not to publicly critique his incoming successor, Andy Burnham, who is scheduled to replace him on Monday.
"I shall give my support privately if asked for, not publicly when not asked for," Starmer said.
Closing his final parliamentary address, Starmer reflected on the end of his tenure and offered farewell wishes to lawmakers and family members.
"This will be my last answer from this Dispatch Box.
Every prime minister knows when they take up the torch that the day will come when they have to pass it on.
That day has come for me," Starmer said.
He expressed pride in his administration's political journey from opposition to government over the past six years.
"This is the end of my political journey. In six years we went from historic defeat in 2019 to historic victory in 2024.
And in two years in government, I leave the country in better shape that I found it. I am proud of everything that we have achieved," Starmer said.
He concluded his address by thanking Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, civil servants, and the public.
"To all those in the [public] gallery, whose lives have been changed or improved by this Labour government, and all across the country, who struggle to be seen or heard – you're the reason I came into politics," Starmer said.
His final remarks offered direct appreciation to his family before receiving a standing ovation from Labour MPs.
"To my wife and children, I love you. Goodbye," Starmer said.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch adopted a conciliatory tone during the session, offering tributes to Starmer's family while noting political challenges facing the incoming leadership.
At a Cabinet meeting, Foreign Secretary David Lammy praised Starmer's work ethic and dedication to the national interest.
Parliament enters summer recess on Thursday and will resume in September.
