Keir Starmer Resigns as Prime Minister

Sir Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party.

Keir Starmer said the decision marks the end of his time in office, during which he led the party back into government after a period of internal crisis. He stated that when he took over, Labour was in a weakened state, and he focused on restoring its credibility, including reforms to address antisemitism, rebuild trust in economic policy, and strengthen national security.

During his time as Prime Minister, he highlighted a series of domestic policy achievements. These included reported economic growth above international peers, rising wages ahead of inflation, and the end of austerity measures. 

He also cited reductions in NHS waiting lists, expanded protections for workers and renters, and increased defence spending, which he described as the largest since the Cold War. On immigration, he pointed to a reduction in small boat crossings and the closure of asylum hotels, alongside social measures aimed at reducing child poverty and strengthening online protections for young people.

On foreign policy, he said the government had worked to restore the United Kingdom’s international standing. He referred to closer cooperation with European partners, continued support for Ukraine, and new trade agreements intended to strengthen the country’s global position.

He said he had informed King Charles III of his resignation and requested that the Labour Party National Executive Committee set a timetable for a leadership contest. Nominations will open on 9 July, and a successor is expected to be in place before Parliament returns in September. He will remain in office during the transition period to ensure an orderly handover.

In a personal statement, he thanked colleagues, civil servants, and staff at Downing Street. He also paid tribute to his wife, Vic, describing her as a steady support, and said he intends to spend more time with his family after leaving office.

His resignation leaves the Labour Party to choose a new leader at a critical point in government.