BY SCM POLITICAL EDITOR
KEIR STARMER has sensationally resigned as Prime Minister, plunging the country into a summer of political chaos.
In a bombshell statement that has rocked Westminster to its core, Sir Keir announced he is stepping down as both PM and leader of the Labour Party.
Speaking from Downing Street, a defeated-looking Starmer fired the starting gun on an immediate race for No10, revealing that his successor will be locked in within weeks.
He confirmed: “A new leader will be in place before Parliament returns in September. I will remain in post until the contest is complete.”
The stunning move triggers a frantic, high-stakes battle for the keys to Number 10 over the summer recess, with Labour heavyweights already drawing up their battle plans.
Sir Keir’s dramatic exit marks a stunning downfall for the former Director of Public Prosecutions, who entered Downing Street promising stability after a turbulent era of British politics.
Starmer, 63, originally took over the Labour leadership from Jeremy Corbyn in 2020, dragging the party back to the political center ground before winning a historic landslide victory.
However, his time in office has been plagued by internal party squabbling, a sluggish economy, and intense pressure over public services. Insiders suggest that mounting pressure from within his own Cabinet ultimately forced his hand, leading to today’s shock exit.
By staying on as a “caretaker” Prime Minister until September, Starmer hopes to ensure a smooth transition of power.
But critics warn a wide-open summer leadership contest risks paralyzing the government just when the country needs strong leadership most.
The race is now wide open, with senior Cabinet ministers expected to declare their leadership bids within the next 24 hours.