Keir Starmer resigns as British prime minister

Sir Keir Starmer has resigned as prime minister of Britain following Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s victory in the Makerfield by-election last week, clearing the way for a Labour leadership contest in which Burnham is expected to be a leading contender.

This marks the fifth resignation by a British prime minister in 10 years.

Pressure on Starmer to step down had been building among Labour MPs and ministers, particularly after the May elections, when Labour lost almost 1,500 councillors in England, was ousted from power in Wales, and recorded its worst-ever result in a Scottish Parliament election.

Speaking to journalists in front of 10 Downing Street, Starmer said that becoming prime minister just two years ago was the proudest moment of his life. 

He reflected on some of his government’s achievements, mentioning a stronger economy, rising wages, investment in infrastructure, and an end to austerity.

Starmer also noted the closure of asylum hotels, protecting children from social media, and fewer migrant boat crossings.

He acknowledged that his party no longer trusts him to take the UK’s Labour Party into the next general election, saying that he has spoken to the king regarding his resignation.

Starmer promised to give his successor his full support, and to ensure that a new Labour leader and prime minister will be found by next September when the British parliament is set to reopen.

His speech ended on an emotional note, saying that he will now focus on his job as a husband and father. Starmer was applauded by his team in 10 Downing Street who were standing outside.

Discontent with Starmer’s leadership had been growing even before those defeats, including over his decision to appoint Lord Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States. Mandelson was later dismissed after fresh revelations about the extent of his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump attacked Starmer on Truth Social, saying he would “resign as prime minister” after having “failed badly” on immigration and energy policy.

“I wish him well!” Trump concluded.