The outgoing British leader said he had informed King Charles III of his decision and will stay on as caretaker prime minister until a new Labour leader is selected
Keir Starmer on Monday announced his resignation as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and leader of the Labour Party, bringing an abrupt end to a turbulent period in British politics after mounting pressure from within his own party. He will remain in office as caretaker prime minister until Labour elects a new leader in the coming weeks.
Starmer made the announcement outside 10 Downing Street, where he appeared alongside his wife before delivering an emotional resignation statement.
Addressing the nation, Starmer acknowledged that growing concerns within the Labour Party had ultimately led him to step aside.
“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. Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party,” he said.
Watch live: My statement. https://t.co/MX7ga3FRGq
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) June 22, 2026
The outgoing prime minister also confirmed that he had informed King Charles III of his decision earlier in the day.
Starmer’s resignation follows months of political pressure, poor election performances and increasing calls from Labour MPs and ministers for a leadership transition. Several senior figures within the party had publicly questioned whether he remained the best person to lead Labour into the next general election.
Despite stepping down, Starmer defended his record in office and pledged to support his successor through the transition process. He is expected to continue overseeing government business until Labour completes its leadership contest.
The resignation opens the door to a potentially significant leadership battle within Labour, with several senior figures expected to emerge as contenders. Reports in British media suggest that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is among the leading names being discussed as a possible successor.
Starmer’s departure marks another dramatic chapter in recent British politics and will trigger a closely watched race to determine who leads both the Labour Party and the UK government into the next phase of the country’s political future.
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