Keir Starmer Announces Resignation as UK Prime Minister
Keir Starmer announced on Monday that he will resign as UK prime minister and leader of the Labour Party.
However, Starmer will remain in Downing Street until the party chooses a new leader, allowing an orderly transfer of power.
Starmer Accepts Labour Party’s Verdict
Starmer said he had asked Labour members whether they still believed he was the right person to lead the party into the next general election.
After hearing their response, he said he accepted the decision with “good grace.”
“I will resign as leader of the Labour Party,” Starmer confirmed. He added that every decision he made while in office was guided by his commitment to putting the country first.
King Charles Informed of the Decision
Starmer informed King Charles III of his decision during a conversation on Monday morning.
He also asked Labour’s National Executive Committee to establish a formal timetable for the leadership transition.
Nominations for the Labour leadership are expected to open on July 9. The process should conclude before Parliament’s summer recess ends, allowing the new prime minister to take office before lawmakers return in September.
Starmer Promises a Smooth Transition
The outgoing Labour leader pledged to support an orderly and stable transfer of power.
He also promised to give his successor his full backing as the next government begins a new chapter.
Starmer argued that the incoming prime minister would inherit a Britain that is stronger and fairer than it was when Labour entered government two years earlier.
Starmer Will Remain Prime Minister Temporarily
Starmer will continue serving as prime minister until Labour officially selects its next leader.
The winner of the Labour leadership process is expected to replace him as prime minister because the party currently holds a parliamentary majority.
Therefore, the transition will not automatically require an immediate general election.
Starmer Thanks Downing Street Staff and Colleagues
During his resignation announcement, Starmer thanked the colleagues who supported him throughout his six years as Labour leader.
He became leader of the Labour Party in April 2020 before leading it to victory in the 2024 general election.
Starmer also expressed his gratitude to the employees of 10 Downing Street and members of the civil service who worked alongside his government.
