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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended his performance in his first parliamentary appearance since announcing his resignation earlier this week, insisting he would leave the country in "better shape" than he found it.
Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday, Starmer rejected criticism from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch over his government's economic record, defense spending plans and the timing of his departure.
Starmer told lawmakers he was handing over the country in "better shape" than he found it, unlike his Conservative predecessors.
He argued that his government had restored economic stability and put Britain in a stronger position to navigate global uncertainty.
The exchange came as Badenoch pressed Starmer on his decision to resign, questioning why he was leaving office if his record was as strong as he claimed.
"If it's all so fantastic, why is he resigning?" Badenoch asked.
Starmer defended Chancellor Rachel Reeves during the session, saying he and the chief finance minister had worked together to turn around Labour's fortunes and implement the government's economic agenda.
The prime minister rejected the opposition's criticism of his economic record, maintaining that his government had strengthened the country during its time in office.
His comments marked his first appearance at Prime Minister's Questions since announcing his resignation earlier this week.
Badenoch challenged both his record and the timing of his departure, focusing on the government's economic performance and defense policy.
Starmer responded by saying his government had delivered stability and would leave Britain better prepared for global uncertainty.
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The timing of the long-awaited defense investment plan also became a point of contention during the parliamentary exchange.
Starmer confirmed that the strategy would be published before he leaves office, despite reports that his successor could seek to delay or revise it.
The plan is expected to be released ahead of the next NATO summit in Türkiye, which is due to take place in less than two weeks.
Andy Burnham is widely seen as the frontrunner to succeed Starmer and could become prime minister as early as mid-July if he faces no challenger.
Reports have suggested that Burnham wants to review the defense proposals before committing to them.
Starmer, however, insisted that the plans had already been agreed by his government.
Downing Street also confirmed that Starmer will remain a member of parliament after stepping down as prime minister, ending speculation that he could trigger a by-election by resigning his seat.
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