Sir Keir Starmer's last appearance at Prime Minister's Questions was characterized by a notable display of emotion from his own party's benches, described by observers as a "blubfest" and a "three-hanky affair." The session, held on July 15, 2026, saw Labour MPs shedding tears as Starmer took his leave, a sentiment that one commentator characterized as "guilty sentimentalism."
MPs from the Labour benches were observed to be particularly emotional, with some described as shedding "crocodile tears." Starmer himself, while acknowledging the sentiment, reportedly maintained composure, with his parting remarks noted as a strong point of his premiership. His wife, Victoria Starmer, was present in the VIP box, adding to the familial focus of the occasion. Speaker Hoyle also offered kind words about Starmer and his family.
Prominent Labour figures, including David Lammy, Rachel Reeves, and Liz Kendall, were noted as being moved to tears by the end of the proceedings, while others, like Angela Rayner and Dame Emily Thornberry, were also present on the front bench. The absence of other key figures, such as Andy Burnham, was also noted.
Politically, the session was not without its sharper edges. Graham Stuart, a Conservative MP, remarked that Starmer had been shown the "red card by 400 dodgy referees," a football analogy that Starmer reportedly appreciated, given his known interest in the sport. Kemi Badenoch, representing the government, offered a measured tone, stating that "bumping off PMs was seldom the answer" and suggesting that "Labour's problems may only just be beginning."
During the session, Starmer reiterated claims that he had "fixed the economy" and "left the country in better shape," a statement met with a heckle of "No you didn't" from a Conservative MP. Some backbencher contributions were described as carrying "lame jokes" and becoming "groansome."
As the session concluded, Starmer expressed his love for his family and bid farewell, departing through a section of MPs described as "sobbing handmaidens." The Speaker then called for an end to the applause for the outgoing Prime Minister.