When the clock struck noon today, signaling the start of Prime Minister’s Questions, the usual political theatrics unfolded in the chamber. Barbs were exchanged, dissenting voices were heard, queries were deflected, and there were even unexpected policy reversals.
In a rare display of unity, party divisions were temporarily set aside during Keir Starmer’s final appearance at the dispatch box. The emotional 45-minute session saw close allies of the Prime Minister and senior ministers visibly moved as his tenure nears its end.
Kemi Badenoch, the prominent Conservative figure who often sparred with the Prime Minister, chose a different tone today. She engaged in light-hearted banter with Mr. Starmer, even making jests at Nigel Farage’s expense, and commended his leadership regarding Ukraine.
Drawing attention to the Prime Minister’s invitation to Ukraine’s Zelensky to No10 following an unexpected encounter with Donald Trump in 2025, Badenoch praised the support provided to Mr. Starmer by his wife, Victoria, and their children, who were present in the chamber.
The final tribute came from Labour MP Carolyn Harris, a close friend of the Starmers, lauding the Prime Minister’s leadership and integrity.
In his farewell address, Mr. Starmer acknowledged the inevitable passing of the torch for every Prime Minister, signifying the end of his political journey.
This poignant moment contrasted sharply with Boris Johnson’s parting words at his last PMQs nearly four years ago, where he famously quipped, “Hasta la vista, baby.”
However, the most touching segment of Mr. Starmer’s final PMQs centered on the individuals he acknowledged off-screen during the session. These individuals, seated in the House of Commons public gallery, inspired the initiatives of his Labour government, from tackling knife crime to enhancing NHS funding.
Among them was Billie-Jean Daniels, a cancer survivor who had actively supported improved cancer care initiatives. Her presence in the chamber was met with emotional acknowledgment from the PM, who shared her positive health update.
Pooja Kanda, another figure in the public gallery, received acclaim for her advocacy for knife crime reform following the tragic loss of her son, Ronan, to a stabbing incident in 2022, which led to the implementation of ‘Ronan’s Law’ by the Labour government.
Additionally recognized were Trevor and Luis, long-time colleagues facing job insecurities due to external factors, and social media activist Carla.
In conclusion, Mr. Starmer expressed gratitude to those in the gallery and across the nation whose lives had been positively impacted by the Labour Government’s initiatives, emphasizing their role in his political journey.
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