10 Downing Street, London. Photo: dom zara / Shutterstock.com London's Metropolitan Police has announced temporary restrictions in Whitehall ahead of events marking the arrival of the United Kingdom's new Prime Minister on Monday, July 20, 2026. Authorities said the measures will be in effect between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. local time near the gates of Downing Street, where crowds are expected to gather to witness the historic moment.
The arrival of a new prime minister is one of the most closely watched moments in British public life, often drawing supporters, protesters, and curious onlookers alike.
According to a statement published by the police, anyone assembling near Downing Street must remain within a designated shaded area and will not be permitted to use amplified noise equipment during the event. The restrictions are intended to help manage public safety and minimize disruption in one of London's busiest government districts.
Travelers and commuters heading to central London on Monday should allow extra time for their journeys, as temporary crowd control measures could affect movement around Whitehall and Downing Street.
The announcement comes as Andy Burnham prepares to begin his tenure as Prime Minister following Keir Starmer's resignation in June. Starmer is the sixth leader to step down in a decade.