Prime Minister Keir Starmer has resigned as leader of the Labour Party, announcing his departure from Downing Street on Tuesday. In an emotional address, Starmer described his time as prime minister as the "proudest moment" of his life and thanked his wife.
Starmer stated he has informed the King of his decision and indicated that a new Labour leader would be in place before Parliament reconvenes in September, should a contest be held.
Hours after Starmer's resignation, Andy Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, was sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Makerfield. Burnham confirmed his intention to stand for the Labour leadership.
Burnham traveled from Manchester to London for his swearing-in ceremony. His decision to run sets the stage for a leadership contest within the party as it navigates this period of transition.