UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Resigns

According to reports, Starmer informed King Charles III of his decision during a meeting on Monday morning. He said he would remain prime minister until a new Labour leader is elected, ensuring an orderly transition of power.

Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, Starmer said Labour members had increasingly questioned whether he remained the best person to lead the party into the next election and that he accepted their verdict "with good grace." He also pledged his full support to his successor and said he would do everything possible to ensure a smooth handover.

Starmer announced that nominations for the Labour leadership contest will open on 9 July, with the party aiming to choose a new leader before Parliament's summer recess.

The resignation follows months of mounting pressure within Labour after disappointing election results, declining popularity ratings and a series of internal disputes. A growing number of Labour MPs had publicly called for Starmer to step down, arguing that the party's difficulties stemmed from its leadership rather than its policies.

Momentum for a leadership challenge increased after Andy Burnham returned to Parliament through a recent by-election victory, positioning himself as the leading contender to succeed Starmer.

Despite previously insisting that he would fight any leadership challenge, Starmer's position became increasingly difficult as senior ministers resigned and criticism within the party intensified.

His departure triggers a Labour leadership contest that will determine both the party's next leader and the United Kingdom's next prime minister.