British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has resigned on Monday, having faced a stormy tenure in power barely two years after leading Labour to a decisive victory in the general elections.
In the statement made in Downing Street, Starmer said that the Labour Party will start the process of choosing a new leader in July, adding that he will continue being a prime minister until Labour chooses a successor in September.
Addressing the press at the steps of Number 10 Downing Street, Mr. Starmer cited his country's interest behind his decision to step down. "Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party," he said.
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Popularity slump and party pressure
The pressure increased due to recent election defeats as well as criticisms of Labour MPs regarding issues like welfare policies and public expenditure.
Watch live: My statement. https://t.co/MX7ga3FRGq
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) June 22, 2026
The focus is now on the battle to be the successor of Starmer. Andy Burnham, who won a by-election in parliament last week, is considered as the frontrunner to replace the party leadership.
Burnham's return to parliament has sparked much talk about the future course of action of Labour, and has been identified by various British media agencies as the frontrunner of an imminent leadership battle.
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Should Burnham win the election to become the party leader, he will become the seventh prime minister of Britain within a decade, indicating a period of immense political turbulence in the nation. The Labour party is expected to make clear the schedule and regulations of the leadership election soon.
FAQ
Q1. Why did Keir Starmer resign?
Keir Starmer has resigned amid increasing pressure due to declining support of Labour Party, election defeat, policy changes, and division in the party.
Q2. Who is likely to replace Keir Starmer?
Andy Burnham is widely seen as the frontrunner to succeed Starmer, although the Labour Party is yet to formally begin its leadership contest.
