The King has welcomed his third Prime Minister in his 22-month reign as Labour achieved a landslide victory in the UK general election.

Charles, 75, greeted Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at Buckingham Palace, where he was invited by the King to form a government and become Prime Minister.

Following the meeting, the Court Circular will note that “the Prime Minister kissed hands on appointment,” though this is typically a handshake.

Outgoing Prime Minister Gives Final Speech

Speaking about his defeat, he said: “I have given this job my all but you have sent a clear signal that the government of the United Kingdom must change and yours is the only judgment that matters. I have heard your anger, your disappointment. And I take responsibility for this loss.”

Rishi Sunak Arrives at Buckingham Palace

Rishi was accompanied by his wife, Akshata Murty, as the couple were greeted at the palace by Sir Clive Alderton, Principal Private Secretary to The King and Queen. 

The Starmers Arrive at Buckingham Palace

Keir Starmer was accompanied by his wife, Victoria, for his audience at the palace with the King. 

Meeting the King

The official moment that Keir was invited to become prime minister by the King. The pair shook hands as the monarch requested that he form a new administration. 

Keir’s Family Life

Keir and his wife, Victoria, who works for the NHS, share a 16-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl, neither of whom have ever been named or pictured publicly before. 

First Speech as Prime Minister

The new PM vowed to deliver change in his first speech to the nation, saying: “You have given us a clear mandate, and we will use it to deliver change. To restore service and respect to politics. End the era of noisy performance. Tread more lightly on your lives. And unite our country.

“Four nations standing together again. Facing down, as we have so often in our past, the challenges of an insecure world. Committed to a calm and patient rebuilding. So, with respect, and humility I invite you all to join this government of service, in the mission of national renewal. Our work is urgent and we begin it today. Thank you very much.”