Prime Minister Keir Starmer (Labour) is attending his final Prime Minister's Questions on 15 July 2026 [1] before stepping down from office.
The transition marks a significant shift in leadership for the Labour Party and the UK government, as the party moves to install a new leader-elect.
Starmer's departure follows a decisive internal move where four out of five Labour MPs nominated Andy Burnham as the next party leader [2]. This support from the parliamentary party prompted Starmer to resign and prepare for the transfer of power.
During his final appearances, Starmer reflected on his time in office. "I've left Britain better than I found it," Starmer said [1]. He also described the current transition as "the end of my political journey" [3].
While some reports suggested the resignation had already occurred, official schedules indicate that Starmer will formally tender his resignation to King Charles III next week, approximately seven days after his final PMQs [1].
Following the formal resignation to the King, Andy Burnham is expected to be appointed Prime Minister. The official handover of power will take place at 10 Downing Street [2].
Burnham's ascent to the premiership comes as the party consolidates its leadership under his direction. The process ensures a structured transition of authority within the House of Commons, and the executive branch [2].
“"I've left Britain better than I found it."”
The rapid consolidation of support for Andy Burnham among Labour MPs suggests a desire for a new direction within the party. By securing the nomination of 80% of the parliamentary group, Burnham enters 10 Downing Street with a strong mandate, reducing the likelihood of immediate internal factionalism during the leadership handover.
