British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces resignation

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his resignation as leader of the Labour Party on June 22, 2026, marking a transition that will result in the country's seventh leader in ten years. The process to select a new party leader will commence on July 9, with nominations expected to close before the parliamentary summer recess begins on July 16. Candidates must secure the support of 20% of Labour MPs, totaling 81 members, alongside support from local party branches and unions. If there is more than one candidate, a leadership contest will be held involving all party members and affiliated supporters, with the winner becoming the new Prime Minister before Parliament reconvenes in September. Andy Burnham has confirmed his candidacy, positioning himself as the frontrunner. Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has publicly demanded that the next leader call for immediate general elections. Starmer stated his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition during this period of political volatility.