Keir Starmer has announced his decision to step down as leader of the Labour Party, triggering a leadership contest while he intends to remain Prime Minister until his successor is chosen. The move follows mounting pressure within the party, particularly after Andy Burnham secured a parliamentary seat in the Makerfield by-election, making him eligible to challenge for the leadership.
What happened
In a statement outside Downing Street, Prime Minister Starmer defended his two-year record in government and six years leading the Labour Party. He acknowledged the view of his parliamentary party regarding his leadership for the next general election, stating, “The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election.” He continued, “I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question. And I accept that answer with good grace.” He added, “That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party,” and pledged an orderly handover of power, saying, “I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power.”
Starmer confirmed he informed King Charles III of his decision and will ask Labour’s National Executive Committee to establish a timetable for the leadership election. Nominations are set to open on July 9, with the aim of completing the process by the summer recess and having a new Labour leader in place before Parliament reconvenes in September, should a contest occur.
Why it matters
Starmer’s announcement initiates a significant Labour leadership race within the governing party, potentially leading to Britain’s seventh prime minister in just over a decade. The immediate challenge for Labour will be to manage a smooth transition and avoid a damaging internal contest. Andy Burnham, who recently won the Makerfield by-election and entered Parliament, is considered by British media as the most likely successor, having promised a “new path for the country.” Former health secretary Wes Streeting has also expressed interest in running for the leadership.
Key points
- Keir Starmer says he will resign as leader of the Labour Party.
- He says he will remain Prime Minister until the Labour leadership contest is complete.
- Starmer says he spoke to His Majesty the King to inform him of his decision.
- Labour nominations are set to open on July 9.
- If there is a contest, Starmer says a new leader should be in place before Parliament returns in September.
- Pressure increased after Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election and gained a seat in Parliament.
- More than 100 Labour MPs, around a quarter of the parliamentary party in the House of Commons, publicly urged Starmer to resign or set a departure date.
Background
Keir Starmer led Labour to a landslide election victory in July 2024, bringing the party back to government after 14 years. Despite this success, he has faced falling popularity, scandals, policy shifts, and voter disappointment over living standards, which intensified pressure for his departure.
What to watch next
The focus now shifts to the Labour leadership contest, with nominations opening on July 9. The party will aim to complete the process before the summer recess, ensuring a new leader is in place by September. Attention will be on potential candidates like Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting, and how the party navigates this transition.
FAQ
Why is Keir Starmer resigning as Labour leader?
Keir Starmer stated he accepted the view of his parliamentary party regarding his suitability to lead Labour into the next general election, following mounting pressure and falling popularity despite a recent election victory.
When will a new Labour leader be chosen?
Labour nominations are set to open on July 9, with the aim of completing the leadership contest by the summer recess and having a new leader in place before Parliament returns in September.
Who are the potential successors to Keir Starmer?
According to British media, Andy Burnham is considered the most likely successor after winning the Makerfield by-election. Former health secretary Wes Streeting has also shown interest in running.
