LONDON (AP)

— Keir Starmer, the newly elected leader of the Labour Party, faced a significant moment in the House of Commons on Wednesday during the weekly Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) session. This marked his first appearance in the role since Labour's decisive victory in the July 4 elections, where the party secured 412 out of 650 seats, ending 14 years of Conservative rule. Starmer, who previously led the opposition, was met with enthusiastic support from Labour lawmakers, highlighting a shift in the political landscape. The PMQs session, typically characterized by its lively exchanges, took on a more amicable tone as both Starmer and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed their shared commitment to supporting Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia. They also extended good wishes to British athletes preparing for the Paris Olympics, with Sunak humorously acknowledging his lack of expertise in sports advice. Starmer's government is focused on revitalizing the UK economy, promoting housing development, and advancing green energy initiatives. With a substantial majority, he is expected to navigate legislation with relative ease. However, he faced immediate challenges, including a rebellion within his party that led to the suspension of seven Labour lawmakers who voted against party lines regarding social welfare issues. The dissenting lawmakers, including former deputy leader John McDonnell, opposed the party's stance on the controversial two-child cap. Despite their suspension, they will continue to serve as independent lawmakers, reflecting the internal tensions within the Labour Party as it embarks on its new governance journey.