Sir Keir Starmer has resigned as leader of the Labour Party, announcing his decision in a statement outside 10 Downing Street. He stated that every decision made during his tenure was about "putting the country I love first."
Starmer, who also serves as Prime Minister, informed His Majesty the King of his decision on the morning of his announcement. He has asked the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to establish a timetable for a new leadership contest, with nominations opening on July 9 and the process to be completed by the summer recess. This timeline aims to have a new leader in place before Parliament reconvenes in September.
He will remain as Prime Minister until the contest concludes, pledging to ensure an orderly handover of power and to give his successor "full and unequivocal support."
In his statement, Starmer reflected on the changes made within the Labour Party during his leadership, including efforts to address antisemitism and restore trust in the economy, defense, and national security. He highlighted achievements such as economic growth surpassing peer nations, rising wages, increased investment, an end to austerity, and improvements in areas like workers' rights and defense spending. He also mentioned reductions in small boat crossings and asylum hotel usage, protections for young people online, and a decrease in child poverty.
Starmer thanked his colleagues, the staff at No. 10, and the civil service for their dedication. He also expressed his gratitude to his wife, Victoria, calling her his "rock," and his children, whom he described as his "pride and joy."