On October 30, former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak made his final appearance at Prime Minister’s Questions, reflecting on his time in office amid a light-hearted exchange with Sir Keir Starmer. This session marked a significant moment in British politics, as Sunak stepped down following the Conservative Party’s recent electoral challenges.
In a display of mutual respect, Starmer thanked Sunak for his service and extended best wishes to his family for the future. Sunak took the opportunity to highlight key moments in his career, including his historic role as the first British Prime Minister of Indian heritage, coinciding with the festival of Diwali.
“I wish everyone celebrating in the UK and around the world a joyful devali a time to come together to celebrate and focus on the brighter future. Last Diwali the leader of the opposition and his family uh lit the doors outside 10 Downing Street it was a significant moment in our national story the first British Asian prime minister is a reminder that this is a country where people of every background could fulfill their dreams and it makes us all proud to be British leader of the opposition” Starmer said.
“I became leader of my party during Diwali, and I now stand down during that same festival,” Sunak stated. “I am proud to have been the first British Asian Prime Minister, but I was even prouder that it was not that big a deal.” He added his wishes for a joyful Diwali to all celebrating in the UK and around the world.
During the exchange, Sunak playfully announced his plans to relocate to Yorkshire, saying, “I’m happy to confirm reports that I will now be spending more time in the greatest place on Earth, where the scenery is worthy of a movie set.”
He expressed enthusiasm for taking on the “coast to coast walk” and jokingly asked Starmer to discuss its future as Britain’s greatest national trail. Starmer responded, “I thought he was about to ask me to join him on the walk, but I certainly will meet him.”
As the Conservative Party gears up for a new leader, the announcement is expected on November 2. The leadership contest, which has lasted several months, has narrowed down to two candidates: Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick. Both have indicated that the race is tightly contested, although reliable polling data remains elusive.
The Conservative Party, which once boasted a membership of around 172,000 in 2022, has not disclosed current figures. Historically, its membership has been predominantly affluent, older, and largely male.
The upcoming leadership selection follows a dismal election result in July, when the Conservatives experienced their worst defeat since 1832, losing over 200 seats and shrinking their total to just 121. This turmoil is reminiscent of the last contested leadership election in mid-2022, when Liz Truss was chosen over Sunak, only to resign after just 49 days in office due to the fallout from her controversial tax-cutting policies.
