Keir Starmer resigns as UK prime minister

Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as the United Kingdom’s prime minister and leader of the Labour Party after accepting that he no longer has the backing needed to lead the party into the next general election.

Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on Monday, an emotional Starmer said he had “heard the answer” from his party regarding his future leadership and was stepping down “with good grace”.

Starmer reflected on his time in office, describing his arrival at Downing Street two years ago as the proudest moment of his life. He said he inherited a Labour Party that was “politically, financially and morally bankrupt” and worked to rebuild it through a series of reforms and policies aimed at improving lives across the country.

“I will resign as leader of the Labour Party,” he said, adding that every decision he made in office was guided by “putting the country I love first”.

The outgoing prime minister disclosed that he had informed King Charles III of his decision earlier in the day. He also confirmed that the Labour Party’s national executive committee would begin the process of selecting a new leader, with nominations set to open on July 9 and conclude before parliament resumes in September.

Until a successor is chosen, Starmer said he would remain in office to ensure a smooth transition of power and pledged his full support to the incoming leader.

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Andy Burnham is emerging as a possible replacement. Burnham, who recently won the Makerfield by-election, is expected to arrive at Westminster later on Monday and could be sworn in as an MP ahead of a potential leadership bid.

After leaving Number 10 alongside his wife to applause from supporters, Starmer said he now intends to focus more on his family life.

“I will now be the best husband and dad to my fantastic wife and beautiful children,” he said.