Andy Burnham on Monday took over as the UK’s 59th Prime Minister after winning the Labour leadership unopposed following Keir Starmer’s resignation. Burnham, 56, formally accepted King Charles III’s invitation
to form a government after Starmer submitted his resignation at Buckingham Palace. He became Prime Minister the moment he accepted the King’s invitation in the traditional “kissing hands” ceremony. Burnham is also the UK’s seventh Prime Minister in the last 10 years.
Before leaving office, Starmer delivered his farewell speech on the steps of Downing Street, reflecting on his time in power and the changes he said his government had delivered. Here are the five biggest takeaways from his final address.
‘My work is done’, says Starmer
Starmer began by formally announcing his resignation, saying it was time to “close the book” on his tenure as Prime Minister. “Today I am here to offer my resignation and close the book on my time as Prime Minister. My work is done,” he said.
Looking back at his political journey, Starmer said he had transformed the Labour Party after its historic defeat in 2019 and led it to a landslide general election victory in 2024. He described serving as Prime Minister as “the privilege of my life” and said he believed Britain was “stronger and fairer” than it had been two years ago.
Defence and national security
Starmer highlighted defence and national security among the achievements of his government.
He said Britain’s defence and security were now “on a far stronger footing” and added that the country’s international reputation had been significantly strengthened during his time in office.
The outgoing Prime Minister also praised the people who serve the country, including members of the armed forces, NHS staff and volunteers working in communities across Britain. He said witnessing their resolve, compassion and dedication had been the most humbling part of serving as Prime Minister.
Ukraine remains central
Starmer also referred to Britain’s support for Ukraine while speaking about global challenges.
He said Britain’s enemies would stop at nothing to divide the country because of its values, freedom and decency, and “because of our unflinching resolve towards the brave people of Ukraine.”
He urged people to remember Britain’s strengths despite the challenges facing the country and said its shared values could help build a better future.
Immigration among key achievements
Listing his government’s record, Starmer pointed to several areas where he believed progress had been made.
He said the economy had become stronger, public services were improving, waiting times had recorded their biggest fall in 17 years, children were being lifted out of poverty every day, and immigration had fallen significantly.
According to Starmer, these developments reflected the work carried out during his time in office.
Andy Burnham gets full backing
As he prepared to leave Downing Street, Starmer endorsed his successor, Andy Burnham. “So, as I now pass the baton to Andy Burnham, I wish him every success. He has my full support,” he said.
Starmer ended his speech by thanking his wife Vic, their children, his team, Labour Party staff, civil servants and everyone who had supported his government. Stressing that politics is “a team sport”, he said the achievements of his government belonged to everyone who had worked for them.
“I go with good grace, I go with a smile, and I go proud of everything that we have achieved,” Starmer said as he concluded his farewell address.
