News Summary
Prepared after editorial review.
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Monday that he will resign from his position due to increasing pressure within the Labour Party.
- Addressing the nation, he stated, ‘I have always made decisions putting the country I love first.’
- Starmer will remain as acting Prime Minister until a new leader is chosen, with the leadership selection process set to begin on July 9.
June 22, Kathmandu – UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Monday his resignation from office. This decision follows growing pressure and intense dissatisfaction among Labour Party members.
According to international media, Starmer will continue as acting Prime Minister until the Labour Party selects a new leader in the coming weeks.
Speaking to the public outside his official residence at 10 Downing Street, Starmer said, ‘I have always made decisions putting the country I love first. My party is questioning whether I am the right leader to guide them into the next election, and I accept that verdict. Therefore, I am resigning as Labour Party leader.’
Visibly emotional, he added, ‘When I step down from the greatest responsibility in the country, I will devote more time to the most important responsibility of my life – being a good husband and father.’
He met King Charles earlier on Monday morning to formally submit his resignation.
What is the main reason for the resignation?
Starmer led the Labour Party to a historic election victory in July 2024 and took office as Prime Minister. However, his popularity has declined recently due to criticism over failure to improve the economy and living standards.
Pressure intensified after Labour’s former Greater Manchester Mayor, Andy Burnham—Starmer’s internal rival—secured a significant win in a recent by-election.
Andy Burnham is the frontrunner to lead the Labour Party and become the next Prime Minister. Over half a dozen cabinet ministers and more than 100 Labour MPs had urged Starmer to resign.
When will the new Prime Minister be appointed?
Along with his resignation announcement, Starmer revealed the timeline for the party leadership contest. Nominations will open on July 9.
If Andy Burnham runs unopposed, he is expected to become the UK’s new Prime Minister by mid-July.
If multiple candidates contest, the selection will conclude by the end of August. Starmer confirmed the transition will be completed before Parliament resumes in September.
Seventh Prime Minister in Ten Years
With Starmer’s departure, the UK will have appointed its seventh Prime Minister within the past decade. His predecessors—David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and Rishi Sunak—also left office before completing their terms.
Starmer assumed office on July 5, 2024.
