UK's Starmer exits, citing economic gains as Burnham takes over

Keir Starmer has concluded his two-year tenure as UK prime minister, making his final appearance at prime minister's questions before handing power to Andy Burnham on Monday. The session largely abandoned the usual political hostilities in favour of tributes and lighter exchanges, including questions about England's upcoming World Cup semi-final against Argentina.

For European neighbours and investors, Starmer used his final outing to defend his government's economic and security record. Challenged on a past remark that pulling the levers of power yielded no results, he insisted his administration had successfully stabilised the British economy. "We pulled the levers to strengthen our public services, and NHS waiting lists are coming down at the fastest rate for 17 years," he stated.

On the broader strategic front, Starmer emphasised a major increase in state spending. "We put the biggest investment into defence and security, and our international standing has been restored," he said. This investment signals to European allies that the UK remains a committed security partner under the incoming administration.

Starmer also highlighted domestic social policy, claiming his government would do more to tackle child poverty "than any government ever, including previous Labour governments." Earlier in the session, he expressed being "truly horrified" at the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe and suggested she be granted a shield in the Commons, similar to those for murdered MPs Jo Cox and David Amess.

The transition to Burnham will occur against a backdrop of continued political fragmentation. The final session touched on the upcoming Clacton byelection, where Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch asked if the country deserved a televised debate between Nigel Farage and Count Binface. Starmer replied: "My advice to everyone is: put your vote in the bin." Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice noted that England's men's team held the best win record of any UK prime minister's tenure.

The departure marked a rare moment of cross-party civility. Badenoch thanked Starmer's family for their sacrifices, and he acknowledged her private kindness during personal tragedies, including an attack on his home and his brother's death. Fighting back tears, Starmer concluded: "This is the end of my political journey. To my wife and children, I love you. Goodbye."