British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced Monday June 22, 2026, that he was resigning from his position as the leader of the ruling Labour Party, which also means that his position as the country’s prime minister would be replaced.
In a statement delivered outside his office and official residence at No 10 Downing Street, in London, Starmer spoke of his achievements in office and recalled that he inherited a party that was, in his words, “politically, formerly, and morally bankrupt,” explaining that he implemented a number of key policies to change the lives of millions for better.
He said: “The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next election. I heard the answer and accepts that answer with good grace. Every decision I have made is about putting the country I love first.”
“I will resign as leader of the Labour Party,” he said in an emotion-laden voice.
The outgoing prime minister disclosed that he spoke to King Charles this morning to inform him of his decision to resign and that he asked the national executive committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening for leadership on July 9, and completed by the summer recess.
This means that a new leader will be in place before the return of parliament in September. And until that happens, Starmer said he will remain in office as prime minister.
He ended his speech by thanking his “fantastic wife, Vic,” describing her as his “rock,” and said he would now be the “best dad I can to my beautiful children.”
