‘Thank you for putting faith in me’ – Theresa May’s final farewell speech
Here is a summary of Theresa May’s farewell statement as delivered in Downing Street:
“I repeat my warm congratulations to Boris on winning the Conservative leadership election.
“I wish him and the government he will lead every good fortune in the months and years ahead.
“Their successes will be our country’s successes and I hope that they will be many.
“Their achievements will build on the work of nearly a decade of Conservative or Conservative-led government.
“During that time our economy has been restored, our public services reformed and our values defended on the world stage.
“Of course, much remains to be done – the immediate priority being to complete our exit from the European Union in a way that works for the whole United Kingdom.
“With success in that task can come a new beginning for our country – a national renewal that can move us beyond the current impasse into the bright future the British people deserve.
“To serve as prime minister of the United Kingdom is the greatest honour.
“The heavy responsibilities are outweighed by the huge potential to serve your country, but you achieve nothing alone. And as I leave Downing Street, my final words are of sincere thanks, to my colleagues in government and Parliament, to everyone in the building behind me and across the Civil Service.
“To the men and women of our armed forces and security services, and to the public servants in our schools, our NHS, our police and the other emergency services.
“All are inspired by the noble wish to serve their country in the national interest.
“I also want to thank the British people, everyone who loves our great country, who works hard for their family and wants their children and grand-children to enjoy greater opportunity than they did.
“Thank you for putting your faith in me and giving me the chance to serve.”