Keir Starmer won’t get a £115,000 ‘pension’ or ‘salary’ for life

Keir Starmer will not receive a lifetime salary or pension of £115,000 per year, according to official clarification. Claims circulating online suggest that the former prime minister would be entitled to such an income, but these assertions have been debunked by fact-checking organisation Full Fact. The £115,000 figure refers to the maximum annual amount that former prime ministers can claim under the Public Duty Costs Allowance (PDCA). This allowance covers expenses related to carrying out duties connected to their former role, such as managing an office, handling correspondence, and attending public events. The PDCA is designed to reimburse necessary administrative costs associated with maintaining a public profile after leaving office. It is not a regular income or pension, but rather a reimbursement mechanism. The £115,000 limit applies to the total amount that can be claimed annually for these expenses. Former prime ministers can also apply for a separate pension allowance, which contributes toward the cost of their staff's pensions, capped at 10% of the PDCA. The confusion surrounding the £115,000 figure emerged following Andy Burnham’s assumption of the role of prime minister. Online discussions suggested that Starmer would be receiving a substantial annual payment, but this misrepresents the nature of the PDCA. Full Fact clarified that the figure is not a guaranteed income but a ceiling for expenses linked to continued involvement in public affairs. The organisation noted that the term “pension” or “salary” is misleading in this context. According to the latest government records, in the 2024–25 fiscal year, five of the eight current former prime ministers claimed the maximum or nearly the maximum PDCA entitlement. However, not all ex-PMs took advantage of the full allowance. David Cameron, for example, was ineligible for the PDCA during part of the year due to his concurrent role as foreign secretary. Similarly, Liz Truss did not claim the entire amount. Rishi Sunak has stated that he intends not to claim the PDCA at all. The PDCA system has been subject to scrutiny and debate. In 2024, Full Fact published a detailed explanation of the allowance and its implications, highlighting concerns over transparency and fairness. Critics argue that the PDCA could allow former leaders to maintain a high level of influence and visibility without direct public funding. Supporters, however, contend that the allowance is essential for enabling former prime ministers to manage their post-government responsibilities effectively. The controversy surrounding the PDCA underscores broader questions about the financial arrangements for ex-officials in the UK. While the allowance is intended to support necessary administrative functions, its structure and accessibility remain contentious. Some argue that the current framework allows for excessive spending, while others believe it is a reasonable compensation for the ongoing demands of public service. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the PDCA remains a focal point for discussion. With new leadership and potential changes in policy, the future of such allowances may come under further examination. For now, the £115,000 figure stands as a specific limit, not a guaranteed income, for former prime ministers seeking reimbursement for their continued public engagement.