On June 24, 2026, Kemi Badenoch, a Conservative MP and former cabinet minister, used her first Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) since Keir Starmer's resignation to criticize the Labour leader's cabinet. Starmer had announced his resignation as Labour leader on June 23, 2026, following a series of political setbacks.
During the session, Badenoch targeted several Labour cabinet members, including Andy Burnham, the MP for Makerfield, who is widely expected to succeed Starmer as prime minister. She questioned the competence of the cabinet, citing recent policy failures and internal divisions. The exchange was notably confrontational, with Badenoch eschewing diplomatic language.
The PMQs session took place against a backdrop of political uncertainty, as Labour prepares for a leadership election. Burnham, currently the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has emerged as the frontrunner, though no official announcement has been made. The next PMQs is scheduled for July 1, 2026.
