After pledging to remain in post until a successor is confirmed and to give that successor “unequivocal support,” the PM fought back tears as he said: “When I leave the biggest job in the country, I shall spend more time on the most important job, being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife Vic, who has been a rock by my side through good times and bad, and being the best dad I can to my beautiful children who are my pride and my joy.”
After the PM returned through the famous black door of No.10 Downing Street with Victoria, he made another speech thanking staff — in particular those who have been there from the start. He said the super-human effort, moments of kindness and extra hours worked were all for the good of the nation and had been noted and appreciated.
“It will make a difference to people who you will never meet, who will never know what you did,” he told them, according to one paraphrased account that others confirmed. “That’s what really matters.” He also thanked those who worked in the building to look after his wife and kids, and spent time talking to people one-on-one in the garden over teas and coffees.
Starmer then returned to his office, but is spending time Monday night with those closest to him for another thanks.
Once the resignation was announced, Starmer allies David Lammy, the deputy prime minister, Richard Hermer, the attorney general, and Jenny Chapman, international development minister, were soon out on the street singing his praises to the cameras.
There were also warm words on social media too from a host of cabinet colleagues — including some who had been urging him to quit just days before.