Keir Starmer says ‘my work is done’ in final speech as PM before Andy Burnham takes over – UK politics live
Starmer has now formally resigned as prime minister after a meeting with the king at Buckingham PalaceAndy Burnham may see banners urging the government not to allow the proposed R
By The Guardian
Keir Starmer has formally resigned as prime minister after delivering his final speech in the House of Commons, declaring that “my work is done” before handing power to incoming leader Andy Burnham. Starmer arrived at Buckingham Palace on Monday, July 20, 2026, to meet King Charles III and tender his resignation, ending his premiership after just over two years in office.
He had previously announced his resignation the previous month following significant local election losses and internal party pressure. In his farewell address to MPs, Starmer said he was proud to have left Britain “stronger and fairer” and in a better state than when he took office, citing Labour’s 2024 landslide victory after the 2019 defeat.
He received a standing ovation from Labour MPs and fellow members of parliament. Starmer ended his speech with a personal message to his family: “To my wife and children, I love you.
Goodbye,” before shaking the Speaker’s hand. He reaffirmed Britain’s support for Ukraine and thanked those whose lives were improved by the Labour government.
Andy Burnham is expected to be invited by the King to form the new government later on Monday and will deliver his first speech at Downing Street, promising “breathing room” for households amid the cost-of-living crisis. Burnham, who succeeded Starmer, Rishi Sunak, and Liz Truss, is not scheduled to appear at Prime Minister’s Questions until after the summer break.
Banners on Whitehall and elsewhere urged the government not to approve the proposed Rosebank oil field development in the North Sea as Burnham travelled to Buckingham Palace[summary].