British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Monday he would step down amid growing political pressure.
He outlined his plans on Monday after a weekend of reflection, in which ministers said they were considering what was best for the country.
“The question my party is now asking is whether I am in the best position to lead us into the next general election,” Starmer told reporters from a speaker outside No. 10 Downing Street.
“I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I heartily accept that answer.”
“Every decision I take is about putting the country I love first,” he said.
“I will therefore resign as leader of the Labor Party. I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision.”
Pressure increases against Starmer
Junior minister Jacqui Smith had previously said that Starmer was thinking “really hard” about his future and supported his decision.
The move comes as former Manchester mayor Andy Burnham takes up his seat in Parliament after winning a by-election, potentially paving the way for a leadership challenge.
Starmer’s announcement came after days of intense speculation, with journalists gathering outside Downing Street awaiting clarity on his position.
This is a breaking news story that will be updated…