– London, UK
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party on Monday, June 22, 2026, in a statement outside 10 Downing Street. Visibly moved, Starmer said the party had asked him if he was the right person to lead the party in the next general election. ,‘I have heard the answer from my parliamentary group to that question and I accept it with gratitude,’ he said. He added, ‘Every decision I have made has been with the country I love first. That is why I am resigning as leader of the Labour Party.’
Starmer informed King Charles III of his decision that same day. He will remain in office as acting Prime Minister until his successor is chosen. Nominations for the Labour Party leadership are expected to open on July 9, with the new leader expected to take office before Parliament resumes in September. Former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, who recently won the Makerfield by-election, is the clear favorite to succeed him.
The resignation comes after significant internal pressure following Labour's heavy defeats in the May 2026 local elections. Starmer reflected on his tenure, noting that entering Downing Street two years ago, following Labour's landslide victory in 2024, was ‘the proudest moment of my life.’ He thanked his wife and children, stating that he would now focus on being the best husband and father he can be, while pledging his full support to his successor for an orderly transition.