UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announces resignation

Starmer, who led Labour to a landslide general election victory in July 2024, said he had informed King Charles III of his decision earlier in the day. He will remain in office until the party selects a new leader.

Speaking outside Downing Street, Starmer reflected on Labour's return to power after 14 years in opposition, calling it "the proudest moment" of his political career.

The resignation comes amid mounting scandals and follows former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham's sweeping by-election win in Makerfield, which strengthened calls within Labour for a change in leadership ahead of the next general election.

Starmer acknowledged that many within his parliamentary party no longer believed he was the right person to lead Labour into the next election.

Defending his record in office, Starmer highlighted what he described as key achievements of his government, including economic growth, rising wages, increased investment, shorter NHS waiting lists, expanded workers' and renters' rights, higher defence spending and measures aimed at reducing poverty.

He also pointed to Britain's international standing, saying his government had rebuilt relationships with European allies and secured trade agreements.

Starmer said Labour's National Executive Committee would establish a timetable for the leadership contest, with nominations opening on July 9 and concluding before Parliament's summer recess. If a contest is required, a new leader will be chosen before Parliament returns in September.

"I will remain in post as Prime Minister until the contest is complete and I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power," he said.

The outgoing prime minister pledged his full support for his successor, expressing confidence that the next Labour leader would inherit a country that is "far stronger and fairer" than it was when he entered office.

Concluding his speech, Starmer thanked party colleagues, government staff and the civil service for their support. He also paid tribute to his family, saying he looked forward to spending more time with his wife and children after leaving office.

Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that the UK plans to ban children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms.