Starmer considering 'political realities' amid resignation reports

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly contemplating his future in office, with reports suggesting he may announce his resignation as early as Monday. The Labour leader has faced mounting pressure following significant losses in the May local elections and a strong performance by Andy Burnham in the Makerfield by-election.

Business Secretary Peter Kyle told the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg that Starmer was "taking the time to think through what the political realities are today compared to last week." Kyle added that a "functional process" would be found regardless of the outcome.

The Observer reported that Starmer is expected to lay out a timetable for his exit. Andy Burnham, who secured a decisive victory in the Makerfield by-election with 55% of the vote, has been viewed by many within the Labour party as a potential successor. Burnham, in his victory speech, warned the party it had a "final chance to change" and to "build a new politics based on unity and hope."

Both Burnham and former UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting have indicated their willingness to stand in any future leadership contest to replace Starmer. Reform UK's candidate, Robert Kenyon, came second in the Makerfield by-election with 15,696 votes.