Macron awards France’s highest honour to Starmer amid UK prime minister's exit
French President Emmanuel Macron has awarded the Legion d’honneur to Keir Starmer, underscoring the UK prime minister’s strong diplomatic standing in Europe even as he prepares to leave office following a collapse in domestic political support.
French President Emmanuel Macron presented the Legion d’honneur to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday in Paris. The 63-year-old former human rights lawyer and chief state prosecutor received France’s highest distinction while attending a summit of Ukraine’s allies. He also attended the annual July 14th military parade in central Paris as Macron’s guest.
Macron commended the British leader for his “personal leadership” and “decency”. He specifically highlighted Starmer’s “commitments” to “the security of Europe, Ukraine, the bilateral relationship”. Starmer is the first UK prime minister to ever receive this prestigious award.
A Contrast in Fortunes
This diplomatic recognition arrives at a moment of profound domestic instability for the British leader. Starmer is expected to leave office within days after losing the confidence of his governing Labour party. A series of domestic policy U-turns has severely damaged his popularity at home, cutting short a tenure that began with a landslide election victory in July 2024.
Despite these domestic struggles, Starmer has maintained high regard among foreign leaders. His administration ended 14 years of Conservative opposition and marked a significant improvement in relations with Britain’s closest European allies, including France. This represents a notable shift from the divisive 2016 referendum era, when Britain voted to leave the European Union under Conservative leadership.
Continuity in European Alignment
The upcoming transition of power in London is not expected to disrupt this renewed diplomatic alignment. Starmer is due to be replaced as Labour leader and prime minister by Andy Burnham. The veteran former minister is also a pro-European centrist, suggesting strong continuity in Britain’s approach to continental security and diplomacy.
For European policymakers, this political continuity in the UK offers a welcome measure of stability. A predictable British government remains crucial for ongoing cooperation on the security of Europe and the bilateral relationship. The smooth handover to another pro-European leader mitigates the risk of policies that could complicate these essential continental ties.
