Ekhbary News Agency
London — Sir Keir Starmer has announced he will step down as leader of the Labour Party, paving the way for a contest to select a new prime minister. Starmer stated he had informed the King of his decision and that he was not best placed to lead Labour into the next general election.
Leadership Contest Timetable
Starmer has asked Labour's governing body to set out a timetable for a leadership contest, with nominations expected to open on July 9 and close by the summer recess on July 16. If a contest proceeds, a new leader would be in place before Parliament reconvenes in September. Starmer pledged to ensure an "orderly" transition of power and to offer his successor "full and unequivocal support."
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Andy Burnham Emerges as Frontrunner
Andy Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor, is widely regarded as the frontrunner to replace Starmer, especially after his emphatic win in the Makerfield by-election. Burnham announced he would put himself forward as a candidate. His chances received an immediate boost when Wes Streeting, who had been seen as a main rival, offered his backing. Former Armed Forces Minister Al Carns, however, told ITV's Robert Peston that he was "not ready to make a decision" on whether to run.
Sir Keir was elected leader in April 2020 and became prime minister on July 5, 2024, following Labour's landslide general election victory. He will leave Downing Street as the shortest-serving Labour prime minister in history.
