Keir Starmer on Monday announced his resignation as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and leader of the Labour Party, bringing an end to a turbulent period marked by growing political pressure and internal party unrest.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, Starmer revealed that he had informed King Charles III of his decision earlier in the day. He confirmed that he would remain prime minister until the Labour Party elects a new leader.
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The resignation comes just over two years after Starmer led Labour to a landslide victory in the 2024 general election, ending 14 years of Conservative rule and becoming Britain’s 58th prime minister. While his government initially enjoyed strong public support, it later struggled with economic challenges, concerns over public services and divisions within the party.
Addressing supporters, Starmer said the key question was whether he remained the right person to lead Labour into the next general election.
“I have heard the answer of my party to that question and I accept that answer with good grace,” he said. “Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first. I will resign as leader of the Labour Party.”
The Labour Party has now begun the process of selecting a successor. Leadership nominations are expected to open on July 9, with a new leader set to be chosen before Parliament returns from its summer recess in September.
Reflecting on his tenure, Starmer defended his record, saying he inherited a party that was “politically, financially and morally bankrupt” but helped restore its credibility and return it to government. He described Labour’s 2024 election victory and his arrival at Downing Street as the proudest moment of his political career.
In an emotional conclusion to his speech, Starmer thanked his wife Victoria and their children for their support. He said he now looked forward to spending more time with his family before embracing his wife and returning inside Downing Street to applause from supporters and staff.
