Keir Starmer resigns unexpectedly after Labour byelection victory
Keir Starmer dashed out moments after the lectern was in place, almost as if he wanted to get the resignation speech over with as few people watching as possible. This marked the seventh prime minister during John Crace's 12.5 years as the Guardian's political sketch writer. The rapid turnover contrasts sharply with the previous 23 years, which saw only four prime ministers. Starmer's departure was triggered by Labour winning a byelection, not by a lost election or strong opposition. His resignation speech was surprisingly moving, unlike Boris Johnson's, which blamed others and warned of regret—a prediction that has not materialized.
World Cup fever grips England after initial disengagement
John Crace admitted to quickly becoming engrossed in the World Cup despite initial reluctance. The England vs Croatia match featured one of the best passages of play he had ever seen from an England side—wave after wave of urgency and creativity. However, the Ghana game was a reality check, with players appearing slow and hesitant. Crace criticized Gianni Infantino's infatuation with Donald Trump, ticket prices, and hydration breaks that ruin momentum. He noted that ITV currently resists ad breaks during hydration pauses but expects that to change in four years.
EU referendum 10th anniversary: Hannan's predictions debunked
Wednesday marked the 10th anniversary of the 2016 EU referendum. Crace recalled Daniel Hannan's pre-referendum prophecy on Reaction.life, which envisioned annual independence day celebrations by 2025, a booming economy, thriving farming and fishing, and the EU begging for trade. None of these came true. Yet Hannan continues to thrive, even receiving a peerage for services to making the country worse off. Crace proposed that the anniversary be known as Daniel Hannan Day.
Heatwave in Westminster: Speaker relaxes dress code
Speaker Lindsay Hoyle temporarily waived the rule requiring male lobby members to wear jackets in the press gallery due to the heatwave. However, the Commons chamber has working air conditioning, so the main benefit was not having to carry a jacket. The Guardian's Westminster office, last updated in the Pleistocene era, remains a furnace in summer, with water leaking onto Pippa Crerar's desk during rain. Facilities management sends a man who inspects the ceiling and leaves without a word.
Personal cancer journey: Life, loss, and hope
Crace reflected on the past 14 months since his wife Jill's cancer diagnosis. He described time bending—some days slow, others racing—and the daily reminders of loss of control. Jill's operation was seven months ago, and chemo ended five months ago, but she still feels unwell at times. The oncologist advised: 'You must always bank the wins when they come along.' The experience has brought the family closer, prompting important conversations. Plans include a trip to America to see their daughter and a visit to Buxton for a festival event. Life is restarting.
