Keir Starmer Resigns as Prime Minister and Labour Leader, Citing Party Will

Keir Starmer has resigned from his roles as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party, just two years after securing a Labour government. Speaking publicly, Starmer stated his decision came after recognising that his parliamentary party no longer saw him as the optimal choice to lead them into the next general election.

Starmer reflected on his tenure, highlighting what he termed significant achievements in office. He cited an economy growing faster than its peers, consistent wage increases above inflation, and substantial investment in infrastructure. He also pointed to a marked reduction in NHS waiting lists, improved rights for workers and renters, and an uplift in defence spending. Starmer claimed half a million children had been lifted out of poverty during his premiership.

He informed His Majesty the King of his decision and has requested the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee to initiate a leadership contest. Nominations are scheduled to open on 9 July, with the aim of having a new leader in place before Parliament reconvenes in September. Starmer confirmed he would continue as Prime Minister until the leadership transition is complete, pledging his full support to his successor and an orderly handover of power.