London, Agency
Keir Starmer on Monday announced his resignation as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party in an emotional address outside 10 Downing Street. Starmer said that throughout his time in office, every decision had been made with the intention of “putting the country I love first.” Appearing visibly emotional, he thanked his wife, Victoria, describing her as his “rock,” and said he now looked forward to focusing on being a better father to his children after leaving office.
He acknowledged that he was not the best person to lead Labour into the next general election, saying he accepted that view “with good grace.”
Starmer confirmed he would remain in office on a temporary basis until the Labour Party elects a new leader. He has asked the party’s National Executive Committee to complete the leadership process before Parliament returns in September. Under the proposed timetable, nominations would open on July 9 and continue through the summer recess.
He also said he had informed the King of his decision earlier in the day and pledged to ensure an orderly transition of power, adding that he would support his successor.
“The question being asked now is not who was best placed to change the Labour Party, to take us into power and begin the vital work of improving lives for millions of people. Those questions have been answered,” he said. “The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election.”
“I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace. Every decision I’ve taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party.”
Senior Labour figure Andy Burnham is among those being discussed as possible successors and is expected in Westminster following his recent by-election victory.
In his statement, Starmer reflected on his tenure, saying he had restored trust in government, strengthened national security, and reformed the Labour Party. He also expressed pride in leading the party back into government after years in opposition.
Despite leading Labour to a decisive victory in the 2024 general election, Starmer has faced growing internal dissent following controversies and policy reversals, which critics say have weakened public confidence in his government.
Pressure has been on Starmer to resign in recent months and escalated sharply after Labour rival Andy Burnham won a parliamentary seat on Friday.
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