Sir Keir Starmer resigns
He's set out the plan for his departure in a speech on Downing Street
Last updated 22nd Jun 2026
Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed he will resign as Prime Minister less than two years after coming to power.
In an emotional statement outside 10 Downing Street, Sir Keir said his party had asked “whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election”.
He said: “I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.”
Defending his record, he pledged to give his successor “my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago”.
With a wavering voice, he added: “When I leave the biggest job in the country, I shall 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 joy.”
He also confirmed he informed the King of his decision this morning.
Sir Keir’s statement followed a weekend spent mulling his future with his family at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s country residence.
While his decision remained unclear early on Monday, ministerial allies and Number 10 staff gathered in Downing Street shortly before 9.30am in an indication Sir Keir was preparing to announce his resignation.
The Prime Minister said he has asked Labour's governing body to set out a timetable to replace him beginning on the 9th July and ending by the summer recess to "ensure a new leader is in place before Parliament returns in September".
Sir Keir’s decision to stand down means Labour will now hold a contest to choose his successor, with Andy Burnham seen as the frontrunner.
The former Greater Manchester mayor is expected to arrive in Westminster to be sworn in as an MP on Monday afternoon after winning the Makerfield by-election.
Former health secretary Wes Streeting is also expected to put himself forward as a candidate.