UK to get new Prime Minister by September as Starmer announces resignation

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans to step down as leader of the Labour Party, paving the way for the United Kingdom to have a new prime minister before Parliament resumes in September.

Starmer made the announcement in a speech outside 10 Downing Street on Monday, June 22, saying he had accepted the verdict of his parliamentary party regarding his leadership.

He said he had informed King Charles III of his decision and would remain prime minister until the Labour Party elects a new leader.

"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 of my parliamentary party to that question and I accept that answer with good grace," Starmer said.

His resignation comes after months of growing pressure within the Labour Party following poor local election results, falling approval ratings and increasing criticism of his leadership style.

Several Labour MPs and ministers had publicly questioned his ability to lead the party into the next general election, while internal divisions and policy reversals further weakened his position.

Reports in recent weeks indicated that dozens of Labour lawmakers had called for his resignation after the party's disappointing electoral performances.

Starmer said the Labour Party's National Executive Committee would open nominations for the leadership contest on July 9, with the process expected to conclude before Parliament returns from its summer recess.

"I will remain in post as Prime Minister until the contest is complete, and I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power," he said.

The outgoing prime minister also pledged his full support to his successor and thanked his colleagues, civil servants and family for their support during his time in office.

Among the leading contenders to succeed Starmer is former Greater Manchester Mayor and newly elected Member of Parliament, Andy Burnham, who has emerged as the frontrunner in the expected leadership contest.

Other names being mentioned include Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and former Health Secretary Wes Streeting.

Starmer became prime minister after leading the Labour Party to a landslide victory in the 2024 general election.

However, his government later faced mounting criticism over policy decisions, internal disagreements and the party's declining electoral fortunes.