Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has launched a scathing attack on outgoing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, describing him as a “terrible Prime Minister” and blaming his administration for several of the country’s economic and governance challenges.

Badenoch made the remarks shortly after Starmer announced his resignation, arguing that Labour’s policies had weakened Britain and left key national issues unresolved.

Badenoch Blames Labour for Britain’s Challenges

In her reaction, Badenoch said the country’s problems stemmed not only from Starmer’s leadership but also from Labour’s broader political ideology and policy choices.

According to her, measures such as increases in National Insurance contributions, welfare spending concerns, inadequate defence funding and reliance on foreign energy sources have contributed to Britain’s current difficulties.

“Britain is not ungovernable. Keir Starmer is a terrible Prime Minister. But the problem is Labour’s choices and their values, regardless of who is running the party,” Badenoch said.

Calls for Stronger Security and Defence Policies

The Conservative leader stressed that national security should be a priority during the leadership transition.

She argued that the next Labour leader must address defence investment, energy security and broader governance concerns, warning that failure to do so could trigger demands for a fresh general election.

Badenoch also questioned whether Labour’s expected successor would be willing to make the difficult decisions needed to strengthen Britain’s security and economy.

Labour Leadership Race Takes Shape

Starmer’s resignation has opened the door for a leadership contest within the Labour Party, with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham widely regarded as the frontrunner.

Reports indicate that senior Labour figures have already begun rallying support around Burnham as the party prepares for a transition.

Badenoch, however, dismissed the possibility of major policy changes under a new Labour leader, insisting that the party’s core approach would remain unchanged.

Political Tensions Intensify

The latest exchange adds to growing political tensions in the United Kingdom as Labour navigates a leadership transition following disappointing electoral performances and mounting internal pressure.

Political observers are closely watching the process amid concerns about policy continuity, economic stability and national security priorities during the caretaker period.

The country is not being governed and Labour say there won't be a Prime Minister till September.

Keir Starmer is off on a farewell tour and Andy Burnham wants a summer holiday. Neither is thinking about our national security.

We need to cut welfare and fund our military. pic.twitter.com/MHJ8IyRoYf

— Kemi Badenoch (@KemiBadenoch) June 22, 2026