Sir Keir Starmer, who stepped down as prime minister, was seen enjoying drinks with close allies, including former Chancellor Rachel Reeves, at a pub in Kentish Town, North London. The gathering occurred shortly after Starmer formally handed over power to his successor, Andy Burnham.
Starmer was pictured holding a pint of ale while speaking on the phone, while Reeves, who was sacked as Chancellor by Burnham, was seen drinking white wine. Aides of both politicians were observed drinking and holding vapes during the gathering. Some aides wore T-shirts emblazoned with the slogan 'Sparkle with Starmer,' a reference to merchandise sold by the Labour party in 2023 following an incident where Starmer was showered with glitter during a keynote speech.
Starmer delivered a final speech in Downing Street, stating that his two years as prime minister had been the "privilege of my life" and that he left "with good grace and a smile." He claimed to have improved the country's standing, citing a stronger economy, improvements in public services, and reduced poverty and immigration. He also expressed confidence that Britain's defense and security were on a stronger footing, and its international reputation enhanced.
He confirmed his full support for Burnham as his replacement, who orchestrated a leadership challenge. Starmer's allies, including Reeves and David Lammy, who was dismissed as Deputy Prime Minister, along with hundreds of aides, were present for his farewell. London mayor Sadiq Khan also attended the event.
Buckingham Palace confirmed Starmer's resignation after 745 days as prime minister. Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor, subsequently had an audience with the King and became the seventh prime minister in a decade.
In his valedictory statement, Starmer reflected on his six-and-a-half-year tenure, stating he had transformed the Labour party from a historic defeat in 2019 into a force that won a landslide general election victory in 2024. He highlighted his confidence in Britain being stronger and fairer, and expressed that witnessing the "greatest things of this country in action" daily had been the most humbling aspect of his job.