British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced on Monday that he will step down as leader of the Labour Party and resign as prime minister, opening the door for former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham to become Britain’s next leader.
In an emotional statement outside 10 Downing Street, Starmer said he had listened to concerns within his party and accepted that he was no longer the right person to lead Labour into the next general election, which is due in 2029.
British Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary David Lammy looks on, on the day British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces the timeline for his resignation, outside 10 Downing Street, in London, Britain, June 22, 2026. REUTERS
“The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election. I have heard the answer from my parliamentary party to that question and I accept that answer with good grace,” Starmer said.
The announcement marks another major political change in Britain, which has now had seven prime ministers since the 2016 Brexit referendum.
Starmer said he would ask Labour’s governing body to establish a timetable for selecting his successor. Under the proposed schedule, nominations will open on July 9 and close in mid-July. If no serious challenge emerges, a new leader could be installed as early as mid-July. Otherwise, a formal leadership contest could run until September.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hugs his wife Victoria Starmer after announcing the timeline for his resignation, following Andy Burnham’s decisive victory last week in the Makerfield by-election, outside 10 Downing Street, in London, Britain, June 22, 2026. REUTERS
Although Starmer’s resignation could have sparked a divisive battle within Labour, several MPs now expect a smooth transition, with Andy Burnham emerging as the overwhelming favourite.
The 56-year-old politician quickly received the backing of former health secretary Wes Streeting, who had been viewed as another possible contender. Labour insiders said Burnham now appears likely to assume the leadership without a prolonged contest.
Starmer became visibly emotional while reflecting on his time in office and thanking his family for supporting him during his political career.
“When I leave the biggest job in the country I will spend more time on the most important job, being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife Vic, who has been a rock by my side through good times and bad, and being the best dad I can to my beautiful children who are my pride and my joy,” he said.
Pressure on Starmer had been building for months amid declining public support and growing unease among Labour MPs.
The situation intensified after Burnham won the Makerfield by-election in a commanding victory over Reform UK, whose leader Nigel Farage has led opinion polls for much of the past year.
Burnham’s return to Westminster revived hopes among Labour lawmakers that his communication skills and political experience could help revive the party’s fortunes after two difficult years under Starmer.
Financial markets reacted positively to the prospect of a more orderly transition. The pound strengthened against major currencies and UK government bonds rose as investors welcomed the reduced likelihood of a lengthy leadership battle.
However, challenges remain for Burnham. Although he has repeatedly called for fundamental change and measures to reduce the cost of living, he has yet to outline detailed policies on the economy, defence or foreign affairs.
Britain continues to face weak economic growth, high levels of public debt, rising defence spending pressures and some of the highest borrowing costs among G7 nations.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage seized on the political upheaval, calling for an immediate general election.
“I’ve had enough of waiting around. Britain needs change — real change, not another washed-up has-been shoved into place by the uniparty,” Farage said in a statement.
Burnham is expected to arrive in Westminster on Monday to take up his newly won seat for Makerfield as preparations begin for what could soon become his move into Downing Street.
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