Key facts
- Keir Starmer has resigned as British prime minister.
- Andy Burnham is expected to replace Starmer as Labour leader and prime minister.
- Wes Streeting, a key rival, has endorsed Burnham's leadership bid.
- Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, making him eligible to challenge for the leadership.
- A Labour leadership contest has been triggered, with nominations opening July 9.
- Starmer will remain in place until a new leader is chosen.
Keir Starmer has resigned as British prime minister, announcing his departure on Monday amid pressure following a significant by-election loss. Andy Burnham, widely seen as Starmer's successor, has secured the endorsement of Wes Streeting, a key rival, potentially fast-tracking his path to leadership.
Starmer stated he had informed King Charles III of his decision and initiated plans for a Labour leadership contest, with nominations opening July 9 and a new leader expected by the summer parliamentary recess. However, Streeting's backing of Burnham suggests this timeline may be compressed.
Burnham, who recently won the Makerfield by-election, confirmed he would stand for the leadership, emphasizing the need for stability and a continued focus on national issues. Streeting stated his conviction that Burnham is committed to an inclusive party and can win against "forces of nationalism."
The resignation follows a difficult period for Starmer's Labour government, marked by losses in local elections to Reform UK, multiple scandals, and policy U-turns. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has called for an immediate general election, while opposition leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Labour's potential tax policies. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey urged ambition for the country, and Green Party leader Zack Polanski called for a "bold change of direction."
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen thanked Starmer for his collaboration on defense and support for Ukraine. Allies of Starmer, including Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy and Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones, were present for his resignation statement.