UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigned on Monday as leader of the Labour Party amid a challenge from new Labour legislator Andy Burnham, according to Al Jazeera. He has faced a series of scandals and missteps and ultimately lost the backing of his party.

Resignation Speech and Key Achievements

Starmer, who became prime minister in 2024, delivered his resignation speech earlier outside 10 Downing Street — he was applauded when taking to the podium, but Towards the end of his speech, he became emotional, his voice cracking when thanking his wife, Victoria Starmer, for her support.

“Thank you. Thank you. Walking up this street two years ago was the proudest moment of my life; a new Labour government, the first in 14 years, a page in our country’s history turned after years of disappointment and despair. The chance to change the lives of millions of people for the better, but That’s what I came into politics for,” Starmer said.

Starmer mentioned the challenges he faced, including inheriting a Labour Party that was politically, financially, and morally bankrupt six years ago, though he was told repeatedly that a majority at the general election, let alone a landslide majority, was impossible. However, he claimed they proved their critics wrong by changing the party and its stance on issues like anti-Semitism, the economy, and national security.

He highlighted key achievements in the past two years, including a stronger economy growing faster than their peers, wages rising faster than inflation every month since they came to power, investment secured, infrastructure built, and an end to austerity. He also noted the fastest fall in NHS waiting lists for 17 years, the biggest improvement in rights for workers and renters in a generation, and the biggest uplift in defence spending since the Cold War.

Starmer mentioned that small boat crossings had fallen, asylum hotels were closing, and young people were being protected from social media — he also said half a million children had been lifted out of poverty because of the choices he made.

International Reputation and Future Plans

Starmer pointed out that Britain’s reputation in the world had been restored, with the country standing up for decency, respect, and the rule of law — he mentioned securing trade deals, standing with Ukraine, standing up for their values, and rebuilding relationships with allies in Europe.

He acknowledged the question his party is now asking is whether he is best placed to lead them into the next general election; he said he has heard the answer from his parliamentary party and accepted it with good grace. He emphasized that every decision he made was about putting the country first.

Starmer informed the public that he will resign as leader of the Labour Party and has spoken to His Majesty the King to inform him of his decision. He will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on the 9th of July and completed by the summer recess. This will ensure a new leader is in place before Parliament returns in September.

Commitment to Public Service and Family

Starmer said he will remain in post as prime minister until the contest is complete and will do everything he can to ensure an orderly handover of power. He will give his successor his full and unequivocal support, knowing they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one he inherited two years ago.

He thanked all of those friends and colleagues who have been at his side for the past six years for their incredible commitment, service, and support. He also thanked the brilliant Number 10 staff and the country’s extraordinary civil service, who dedicate their lives to public service.

Starmer concluded by saying that when he leaves the biggest job in the country, he will spend more time on the most important job: being the best husband he can to his fantastic wife, Vic, and being the best dad he can to his beautiful children, who are his pride and joy.