UK Labour Party launches leadership race after Starmer's resignation

The United Kingdom has begun the process of electing a new leader of the ruling Labour Party, who will become prime minister following the resignation of Keir Starmer, TASS reports.

Candidates wishing to enter the race can submit their nominations until July 16. Any contender must secure the backing of 20% of Labour MPs in the House of Commons — currently 81 lawmakers. In addition, candidates must receive support from at least three Labour-affiliated organisations, including a minimum of two trade unions. Only serving members of Parliament are eligible to become party leader.

So far, only former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, who was elected to the House of Commons on June 18, has expressed an intention to run. He must formally submit his candidacy to the party’s governing bodies.

If no other Labour MP enters the contest, Burnham would become party leader on July 17 and is expected to be appointed prime minister on July 20 following a meeting with King Charles III.

Most British media outlets believe Burnham is likely to secure the leadership unopposed due to strong support among Labour lawmakers. However, if another candidate joins the race, a party-wide vote involving Labour members and affiliated organisations would be held from August 6 to August 27, with results announced on August 29.

Starmer announced on June 22 that he intended to step down as both Labour leader and UK prime minister.

By Jeyhun Aghazada