Starmer announces resignation as UK Prime Minister, leader of Labour party VIDEO

Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party, triggering a fast-tracked leadership process that could see a new head of government in place as early as mid-July or, in the event of a contest, by the end of August.

The outgoing Prime Minister confirmed the decision after a period of internal party pressure, saying he would step aside once an orderly transition is arranged, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Speaking outside Downing Street, he acknowledged he was no longer the preferred choice to lead Labour into the next general election.

Starmer said: “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’ve taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour party. I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision.”

He confirmed he would remain in post as Prime Minister until the leadership contest concludes, adding that he would “do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power.”

Starmer outlined a compressed timetable for selecting his successor, with nominations expected to open on 9 July and conclude before the summer parliamentary recess.

He said: “I 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. In the case of a contest, this will ensure a new leader is in place before parliament returns in September.”

Under the plan, if a single candidate emerges unopposed, Labour mayor Andy Burnham could assume the premiership in mid-July. If a full leadership race is required, a new Prime Minister would be in place by the end of August.

The Commons is due to enter summer recess on July 16 and return on September 1.

By Aghakazim Guliyev