Starmer Joins King Charles at Balmoral Church After Deputy Resignation

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Lady Victoria attended a Sunday service at Crathie Kirk near Balmoral alongside King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other royals, where prayers were said for the late Duchess of Kent and the third anniversary of the King's Accession was marked. The Duchess of Kent, who died last week at age 92, was remembered for her compassion and dedication, with Starmer offering an emotional tribute highlighting her unassuming nature and service. The service was delivered by the Right Reverend Rosie Frew, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, and featured elements of royal mourning in dress. Starmer's attendance followed a difficult week marked by the resignation of his deputy Angela Rayner amid tax controversies, a Cabinet reshuffle promoting David Lammy, Yvette Cooper, and Shabana Mahmood, and challenging polling ahead of an election. Meanwhile, the royal family also faced controversy after a cardiologist's comments linking the King's cancer to Covid vaccines sparked criticism from Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who condemned Nigel Farage's Reform UK party for platforming such views. The Prime Minister's presence at Balmoral and the church service underscores ongoing intersections between UK politics and the monarchy during a period of political and royal challenges.