Britain is preparing for a changing of the guard as Sir Keir Starmer delivers his final address to the nation as Prime Minister, reports BritPanorama.
Following a dramatic period in Westminster, Sir Keir is standing down, paving the way for new Labour leader Andy Burnham to take the reins at No10.
A podium will be erected on the pavement for his final moments in the media spotlight. As has been tradition for exiting British leaders, his farewell speech will take place on the steps outside the famous black door of 10 Downing Street, weather permitting.
When is Starmer’s farewell address – how to watch live
Sir Keir Starmer is expected to deliver his farewell speech at 10am today (July 20). The entire speech can be watched live, as it happens, on The Sun’s official YouTube channel.
What is he expected to say?
While the exact text of the speech remains under wraps, political insiders expect Sir Keir to focus on dignity, duty, and his vision of public service. Key themes of his final address are expected to include:
- Defending his legacy: Highlighting his efforts to stabilize the country, navigate public sector challenges, and maintain Britain’s international standing, including his support for Ukraine.
- Acknowledging the transition: Facing the political shifts and internal party pressures that led to this moment with what he previously called “good grace.”
- Looking to the future: Striking a cooperative, orderly tone and formally wishing his successor, Andy Burnham, the best of luck in tackling the country’s economic and social challenges.
The address is expected to be relatively brief, lasting between five to 10 minutes, before he makes his final exit from Downing Street.
What happens after that?
Once the podium is cleared outside Number 10, the swift and precise choreography of a British political transition begins. Here is the expected timeline for Sir Keir’s final journey as Prime Minister:
- 10.15am: Sir Keir and his family will say their final goodbyes to Downing Street staff. He will then enter the official prime ministerial car waiting in the courtyard.
- 10.25am: The ministerial convoy will depart Downing Street, heading down Whitehall and along The Mall towards Buckingham Palace.
- 10.35am: Sir Keir arrives at the Palace for a private audience with King Charles III, where he will formally tender his resignation.
- 11am: With the resignation officially accepted, Buckingham Palace will issue a formal statement, and Sir Keir will depart.
- 12.00pm: The new Prime Minister arrives at Downing Street to deliver his first address to the nation, before beginning his initial Cabinet appointments throughout the afternoon.
Shortly after Sir Keir leaves, the stage will be set for the next chapter. Incoming leader Andy Burnham will make his own journey to see the King for the traditional “kissing of hands” ceremony. He will officially become Britain’s next Prime Minister before heading back to Downing Street to start building his new Cabinet.
This moment marks a significant transition in British politics, reflecting both the challenges faced by the outgoing Prime Minister and the expectations placed on the incoming leader. The effectiveness of this leadership change may determine the direction of Labour’s approach to governance and public policy in the face of pressing national issues.
