Sir Keir Starmer made a rare visit to Milton Keynes to promote a new summer savings scheme, just days after his resignation announcement.

The Prime Minister served pupils from Summerfield Primary School at Odeon cinema in Milton Keynes on Thursday, June 25.

The visit came just after his resignation announcement on Monday. He offered the children discounts, to mark the new Great British Summer Savings scheme which went live on Thursday.

The new initiative will see reduced prices for children’s meals in restaurants and family days out, due to a summer savings tax cut.

Britain's outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer serves popcorn to Milton Keynes pupils at Odeon cinema. (Photo by Toby Melville / POOL / AFP via Getty Images)

placeholder image — Britain's outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer serves popcorn to Milton Keynes pupils at Odeon cinema. (Photo by Toby Melville / POOL / AFP via Getty Images)

With a VAT cut from 20% to 5% on eligible activities across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, families can enjoy weekend treats and days out to make the most of the summer.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “The cost of living isn’t just about paying the bills, it’s about being able to afford the moments that matter with your family.

“Whether it’s a trip to the cinema, a day out together or family meal, too many parents have had to hold back because of pressure on household budgets - that’s why we’re slashing VAT on family days out this summer.”

As well as benefitting families, the scheme aims to support businesses by increasing footfall. Many businesses across the country have already signed up to the Great British Summer Savings, including popular attractions and restaurants. Small businesses including independent cafes and soft play areas are also participating.

The Prime Minister served popcorn to pupils from Summerfield Primary School as he promoted the official launch of the Great British Summer Savings scheme. (Photo by Toby Melville / POOL / AFP via Getty Images)

Prices will be slashed for children’s menu meals served in restaurants, as well as children’s and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, shows and exhibitions. Ticket discounts will also be applied for a range of attractions, including amusement parks, fairs, museums, soft play centres, circuses, adventure parks, nature reserves, wildlife parks and observation attractions.

Picturehouse, Everyman Cinemas, Vue, Butlin’s, Wetherspoons, Shepherd Neame pubs are among those who have joined the scheme.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), UKHospitality and the Society of London Theatre & UK Theatre (SOLT) have all backed the campaign.

For an added boost to households, free bus travel for children in England will come into force for the whole month of August.