Keir Starmer delivered his farewell speech outside his 10 Downing Street office in London today, stating, "I believe that the United Kingdom today is stronger and fairer than it was two years ago." He confirmed he had completed his work, adding, "I leave with joy and pride in all that we have achieved." Following the speech, the UK prime minister will travel to Buckingham Palace to submit his resignation to King Charles III, paving the way for Andy Burnham to officially become the new prime minister.

UK prime minister Keir Starmer delivers his farewell speech before leaving office at 10 Downing Street, London on 20/7. *Photo: AFP*

Labor Party leader Starmer took office as UK prime minister on 5/7/2024, succeeding Rishi Sunak. He pledged to pursue a "calm and patient rebuilding" of the nation and called on all citizens to join efforts to renew the country. During his final prime minister's questions session in parliament on 15/7, Starmer defended his government's achievements, particularly its support for Ukraine and accomplishments in domestic policy.

He highlighted several key initiatives: strengthening worker protections, reducing child poverty rates, increasing defense spending, and passing legislation to prevent officials from covering up the truth after disasters. "I am proud to leave this country in a better state than when I took it on," he said at the time.

Last month, Starmer announced his resignation following missteps that eroded his standing within the Labor Party and with the public. The UK economy also did not improve during his tenure.

The Labor Party on 17/7 elected Andy Burnham as party leader, replacing Starmer. Burnham was the sole candidate in the leadership contest for the Labor Party, receiving nominations from 379 of 403 members of parliament in the House of Commons.

Burnham will meet King Charles today and accept the invitation to form a new government, officially becoming UK prime minister. He will then proceed to Downing Street to deliver his first speech as prime minister. A spokesperson for Burnham said the new prime minister is expected to acknowledge the rapid leadership changes the country has experienced over the past decade and commit to restoring stability.

Andy Burnham speaks in London after being elected Labor Party leader on 17/7. *Photo: AFP*

Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, also pledged to improve living standards for citizens and "bring back the hope we have lost." "I will strive to build a new politics. The country desperately needs it," he said after becoming Labor Party leader on 17/7.