Outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reportedly received only one job offer since announcing his departure from office: trimming his father-in-law's hedge. The revelation comes from Tom Baldwin, a friend and former Labour advisor to Starmer, who also suggested the Prime Minister might resign from Parliament before the next general election, despite stating his intention to remain.
Baldwin shared this anecdote on Times Radio, humorously noting that the offer was not for minimum wage but might be accepted on the condition of a potential promotion to lawn care if the hedge trimming is done well. This statement offers a stark contrast to speculation about Starmer potentially taking on a high-profile role such as the secretary general of NATO, a position Baldwin suggested Starmer would be "interested" in, provided it received the support of a potential future government led by Andy Burnham.
Starmer concluded his tenure as Prime Minister with a final session of Prime Minister's Questions, where he received a standing ovation from Labour Members of Parliament. During his farewell address, he paid tribute to his family and expressed his belief that he was leaving the country in a better state. He refrained from criticizing Andy Burnham, who was absent from the Commons as he prepared to assume leadership. Starmer pledged his "wholehearted support" to the incoming Labour government.
Despite Starmer's insistence on staying on, Baldwin's comments suggest a potential early exit from the Commons. Meanwhile, potential cabinet positions in the upcoming Labour government are being discussed. Allies of the incoming leader have indicated that Ed Miliband's chances of becoming Chancellor are diminishing, with concerns raised about his left-wing views potentially alarming businesses. Shabana Mahmood and Yvette Cooper are among the other individuals being considered for the Chancellor role.
Darren Jones, identified as a close ally of Starmer, confirmed his own departure from his current role, stating he was preparing handover notes and concluding outstanding tasks. Reports indicate that Starmer, who recently received the Legion d'honneur from French President Emmanuel Macron during a visit to France, is feeling a mix of sadness and philosophical acceptance regarding the end of his political career. One close ally commented that while it was not the desired end, Starmer was acting in the best interest of the country and the party, and would not be a vocal critic from the sidelines.
Earlier in the week, the outgoing Prime Minister hosted a reception for individuals whose causes he had championed. He expressed his satisfaction with having fulfilled his promises and vowed to continue supporting these causes. His attendance at Bastille Day celebrations in Paris also underscored his efforts to strengthen relationships with European neighbors.