10 Downing Street lecterns

In recent times, a standardised lectern has been used by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, typically outside the door of 10 Downing Street, for addresses to the nation, the announcement of general elections, and resignation speeches.

[7] Conservative prime minister David Cameron was the first to have a custom-built and bespoke lectern, designed by his head of operations Liz Sugg to appear "statesmanlike," with a curved, flared column, lighter wood and glossy finish.

[8] A sound engineer by the name of Tobias Gough received media attention for his physical attractiveness after setting up and testing the lectern for May's resignation speech, and was nicknamed "Hot Podium Guy".

[4] The main lectern, paid for by the government, cost £4,175 to make[4] and was used for two addresses to the nation at 10 Downing Street, including the death of Queen Elizabeth II and the dismissal of Kwasi Kwarteng as Chancellor of the Exchequer.

[4] The lectern was notably similar to that of his predecessor, but was made with a lighter wood, appeared to be slightly smaller, and had a straight column rather than Truss' curved block design.

[6] In his first speech at 10 Downing Street following the 2024 general election on 5 July 2024, incoming Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer made use of the same lectern that Sunak used during his tenure.