Outgoing UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared "my work is done" in his final address, signalling the end of his tenure while throwing his full weight
behind Andy Burnham as his successor. Starmer said it has been the "privilege of my life" to serve as prime minister and says he is confident the country is "strong and fairer" than it was two years ago. Starmer's speech struck a reflective tone, highlighting his government’s key achievements and challenges, even as he urged party unity and continuity in leadership. Backing Burnham, he expressed confidence in his ability to carry forward the agenda, framing the transition as a moment of renewal rather than division. Starmer said as he ends his tenure, the economy is stronger, public services are on the up, children are being lifted out of poverty, immigration is down, and the international reputation is "greatly enhanced". But he says the thing he will take away, the "most humbling aspect" of the job, is the "front row seat you get to witness the greatest things of this country in action". "We face a world now where our enemies will stop at nothing to divide us because of our values," he added. As he passes the baton to Andy Burnham, Starmer said, "I wish him every success, he has my full support." "Politics will always be a team sport," he says. "And I thank the British people for the opportunity to serve." he said that he took the Labour Party from a "historic defeat" to a landslide victory in 2024. He concluded his speech by saying, "I go with good grace, I go with a smile, and I go proud of everything we have achieved". Keir Starmer has officially submitted his resignation. In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: "Sir Keir Starmer MP had an audience of the King this morning and tendered his resignation as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury which His Majesty was graciously pleased to accept." "Lady Starmer was also received by The King."
