As Theresa May prepared to leave Downing Street in 2019, she aimed to enact a net zero emissions target into law ahead of other major economies, including France. Government machinery accelerated to meet this goal, resulting in the UK measure taking effect in June 2019, weeks before her departure. With the Makerfield byelection approaching and potential return of Andy Burnham to Parliament, speculation has grown that Keir Starmer is entering a phase focused on lasting achievements. Expected this week is a long-planned defence investment strategy. Progress continues on strengthening EU relations. New steps are also set to restrict social media access and block explicit images on devices used by children. Downing Street officials reject suggestions of legacy-focused actions as unfounded. Starmer allies note that without an announced departure date, the prime minister continues routine governance. A government source described recent moves as efforts to demonstrate delivery of substantial policy changes, urging others to outline alternatives. These initiatives on defence, EU ties and social media were already underway. Officials stressed the need to proceed rather than delay amid internal ambitions. This approach matters if Starmer seeks to stay as Labour leader despite challenges. Historians note that prime ministers often reflect on achievements as their time nears an end. Comparisons arise with measures like Rishi Sunak’s smoking ban proposal or Tony Blair’s emphasis on Northern Ireland peace over other events. Anthony Seldon observed that leaders eventually recognise limits on their tenure. He added that Starmer had greater scope for action than predecessors but has not fully used it.
