No 10 says no new major policy commitments before Starmer stands down
8 reported3 unconfirmed
According to a single-source report from The Guardian, the Prime Minister’s spokesperson stated that Keir Starmer has agreed there will be “no new major policy or spending commitments” initiated before he stands down. The spokesperson indicated this does not cover the defence investment plan (Dip), which Starmer reportedly regards as already settled. The cabinet secretary, Antonia Romeo, has written to department heads outlining how the civil service should operate during the transition period. The spokesperson also confirmed that Andy Burnham will be allowed “access talks” with the civil service before becoming PM, and that these talks could start before nominations open on 9 July. Chancellor Rachel Reeves told MPs she is “confident” the Dip will be published before the Nato summit in Turkey on 7-8 July. Starmer told the cabinet he wants to “resolve difficult issues” before leaving office, implying he wants final say on the defence plan. The spokesperson declined to confirm whether Starmer will have a resignation honours list, noting reporters are aware of his previous comments on the matter.
What’s reported
The PM’s spokesperson said Starmer agreed to “no new major policy or spending commitments” before he stands down.
The defence investment plan (Dip) is not covered by this restriction, as Starmer reportedly regards it as already settled.
Cabinet secretary Antonia Romeo wrote to department heads setting out civil service operating principles during the transition.
Starmer remains PM until he recommends a successor to the King; government business continues as normal.
Andy Burnham will be allowed “access talks” with the civil service before becoming PM, starting before 9 July.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said she is “confident” the Dip will be published before the Nato Ankara summit on 7-8 July.
Starmer told the cabinet he wants to “resolve difficult issues” in his remaining weeks to support his successor.
The PM’s spokesperson declined to confirm whether Starmer will have a resignation honours list.
Open questions
Whether Starmer will produce a resignation honours list.
How the Cabinet Office will determine which Labour MPs qualify as prospective candidates for access talks.
Whether the Dip will be published before Burnham becomes PM, and whether Burnham wants the timetable delayed.
Key figures
Keir Starmer, Prime Minister
PM’s spokesperson (unnamed)
Antonia Romeo, cabinet secretary
Andy Burnham, prospective Labour leadership candidate
David Lammy, deputy PM
Rachel Reeves, chancellor
Dan Jarvis, new defence secretary
John Healey, former defence secretary (resigned)
Al Carns, former armed forces minister (resigned)
Sir Richard Knighton, chief of the defence staff
Sources: The Guardian
