Keir Starmer resigns as MP

Key facts

• Keir Starmer is resigning as the MP for Holborn and St Pancras.
• He stated his decision is to focus on international affairs and combating violence against women and girls.
• Starmer previously resigned as Prime Minister in July.
• His resignation triggers a by-election in the constituency.

Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as the Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras, marking an end to his 11-year political career in Westminster. Starmer, who previously served as Prime Minister before resigning in July, stated that he is stepping down to focus on international affairs, including defence, security, trade, and technology, as well as continuing his work combating violence against women and girls.

His departure from the House of Commons triggers a by-election in the central London constituency. Starmer's decision comes after a period of political maneuvering, including a previous confirmation from his spokesman that he would not quit as an MP. The Conservative Party chairman, Kevin Hollinrake, commented on Starmer's resignation, calling it a 'fitting final act' and a 'u-turn'.

Before entering parliament in 2015, Starmer served as director of public prosecutions. He later became Labour leader in 2020 and led the party to a significant majority in the 2024 election, an outcome referred to as the 'loveless landslide'.