Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, saying he wants to devote more time to his family after leaving what he described as “the biggest job in the country”.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, Starmer became emotional as he paid tribute to his wife and children.
Starmer pays tribute to family
Starmer said he now wants to focus on “the most important job”.
“Being the best husband I can, to my fantastic wife Vic, who has been a rock by my side through good times and bad,” he said.
“And being the best dad that I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and joy,” he added before embracing his wife and returning inside Number 10.
Orderly transition planned
Starmer said he would do everything possible to ensure a smooth transfer of power and pledged his full support to his successor.
He said the next leader would inherit a country that is stronger and fairer than it was two years ago.
The outgoing prime minister also thanked his friends, colleagues, staff at Downing Street and members of the civil service for their support over the past six years.
New Labour leader expected before September
Starmer revealed that he had informed King Charles III of his decision earlier in the day.
He said he had asked the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee to begin the process of electing a new leader.
According to him, nominations for the leadership race will open on July 9 and conclude before Parliament’s summer recess.
That timetable is expected to ensure that a new Labour leader and prime minister are in place before Parliament returns in September.
Until then, Starmer said he will remain in office as prime minister to oversee an orderly transition.
