Keir Starmer Ends Premiership With Pub Farewell
Sir Keir Starmer marked the end of his time as Prime Minister by heading straight to his local pub for a pint of bitter.
Only hours after formally handing over the keys to No. 10 to Andy Burnham, Starmer made his way to a pub in Kentish Town, joined by close allies, including former Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
In exclusive pictures obtained by The Sun, the former Prime Minister is seen holding a pint while Reeves appears in high spirits, enjoying a glass of wine alongside other members of Starmer’s former team.
Earlier in the day, Starmer delivered a brief farewell statement outside Downing Street before travelling to Buckingham Palace, where he officially tendered his resignation to King Charles, bringing his two-year premiership to a close.
Reflecting on his time in office, he described serving as Prime Minister as “the privilege of my life” and said he was leaving “with good grace and with a smile.”
Starmer also looked back on Labour’s journey from its heavy election defeat in 2019 to its commanding victory in 2024, saying he believed his mission had been accomplished.
He argued that Britain was in a stronger position than when he entered Downing Street, highlighting improvements such as a more resilient economy, shorter NHS waiting lists, reduced immigration levels, and increased defence spending.
At the same time, he warned that hostile nations would continue trying to exploit divisions within the UK because of its democratic values and steadfast support for Ukraine. He urged the public to remember the country’s strengths and remain united despite political disagreements.
Addressing his successor, Starmer wished Andy Burnham success in the role and pledged his full support as leadership passed to the new Prime Minister.
He concluded his speech by thanking his wife Victoria, their children, his staff, Labour members, civil servants, and the British public, saying politics had always been “a team sport.” He said he was leaving office proud of what his government had achieved.
Soon afterwards, Andy Burnham was invited to form a government and returned to Downing Street as Britain’s new Prime Minister.
Away from the formal ceremonies in Westminster, Starmer spent the remainder of the day at his neighbourhood pub, where family, friends, and trusted advisers gathered for a private farewell.
Starmer entered Downing Street in 2024 after securing a landslide election victory, promising stability following years of Conservative government. However, his administration later faced mounting challenges, including controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to the United States, Cabinet resignations, and internal Labour disputes.
His decision to step down followed Labour’s disappointing performance in local elections and growing calls from MPs for new leadership. Last month, he announced his resignation after Andy Burnham’s decisive by-election victory in Makerfield, clearing the way for Burnham to become Labour leader unopposed
