Andy Burnham prepares for power as emotional Keir Starmer bows out

Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as British prime minister, succumbing to intense pressure and conceding he is no longer the right person to lead the country. This move makes Andy Burnham the likely successor, positioning him to take the reins with just over three weeks to prepare for government.

In a significant day at Westminster, Starmer revealed a timetable for his departure following months of growing discontent among Labour MPs and cabinet ministers. Many were reportedly unnerved by the threat posed by Reform UK ahead of the next general election. As Wes Streeting confirmed he would not challenge for the leadership, the focus shifted to Burnham's policy agenda and his plans to counter Nigel Farage's party.

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The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election.

Sources indicate that Burnham plans to launch his policy initiatives next week with a series of speeches. These will aim to signal a departure from Starmer's government, with an initial focus on the economy and devolution. Burnham is reportedly considering appointing Ed Miliband as chancellor to challenge established Treasury thinking, despite potential risks with business and union opposition. Shabana Mahmood is expected to remain Home Secretary, having been praised by Burnham for her handling of immigration issues during the by-election campaign.

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I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.

Wes Streeting is also a potential candidate for a top cabinet position, though campaign sources have downplayed his leverage in leadership discussions. Some have suggested he could be appointed chancellor to reassure financial markets. Starmer loyalists are reportedly still searching for a candidate to oppose Burnham, with Darren Jones being mentioned as a possibility, though he has not definitively ruled out a run.

Starmer's decision to resign came after spending the weekend with his family at Chequers. In an emotional speech outside Downing Street, he stated, "The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election. I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace." He concluded by affirming that "Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first."

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Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first: that is why I will resign as leader of the Labour party.