Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party in a statement outside 10 Downing Street.
He said that every decision he had made in office was driven by a commitment to “putting the country I love first.”
In an emotional address, Starmer thanked his “fantastic wife, Vic,” describing her as a “rock” throughout his time in office. He also said he hopes to be the “best dad I can” to his children, calling them his “pride and joy.” He embraced his wife on Downing Street after delivering the remarks, BBC reports.
He said he would now focus on what he called “the most important job,” following what he described as “the biggest job in the country.”
Starmer pledged to support an orderly transition of power and assist his successor, saying they would inherit a Britain that is “stronger and fairer” than two years ago.
Earlier, he confirmed he had informed the King of his decision and set out a timetable for the Labour leadership contest, with a new leader expected to be in place before Parliament returns in September. He will remain in post as Prime Minister until then.
