Sir Keir Starmer has formally tendered his resignation as Prime Minister during a meeting with King Charles at Buckingham Palace.
The outgoing PM arrived at the palace’s main quadrangle alongside his wife, Lady Victoria, entering through the luggage door owing to ongoing renovation works elsewhere in the building.
Rather than the usual setting for such occasions, the pair were directed to the Chinese dining room.
This was an unconventional choice of venue, though the ceremony itself adhered to longstanding constitutional tradition.
Sir Keir Starmer has formally tendered his resignation as Prime Minister during a meeting with King Charles at Buckingham Palace.
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PA
The occasion represents a significant moment for the constitutional monarchy, marking the formal end of Starmer’s premiership through the established process of a private royal audience.
During the private audience, the two men sat beside one another for a conversation that included an opportunity to look back on Starmer’s time in office. Official photographs of the meeting were then released.
The Prime Minister’s two children were also present at the palace, joining Lady Victoria for their own audience with the King.
Buckingham Palace released a short statement this afternoon, confirming Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation had been accepted.
During the private audience, the two men sat beside one another for a conversation that included an opportunity to look back on Starmer’s time in office.
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PA
A Palace spokesperson said: “Sir Keir Starmer MP had an audience of The King this morning and tendered his resignation as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury which His Majesty was graciously pleased to accept.
“Lady Starmer was also received by The King.”
Now the formalities have concludes, the transition of power is expected to move swiftly.
Andy Burnham is anticipated to arrive at Buckingham Palace just minutes later to be appointed as Starmer’s successor, becoming the new Prime Minister.