UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigns amid party pressure

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his resignation Monday, acknowledging that his party no longer believed he was the best person to lead them into the next general election. His departure comes two years after securing a landslide victory with promises of steady leadership and economic growth, but his popularity and that of the Labour party have since plummeted.

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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.

Starmer's decision was reportedly triggered by the recent special parliamentary election victory of former Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. Burnham confirmed he would seek the leadership, and Wes Streeting, who was considered his main rival, has pledged his support, making a leadership contest less likely.

Starmer, who spent weeks insisting he would fight to keep his job, conceded to mounting pressure to hand over to a new leader. He is the sixth prime minister in the last decade to announce a premature departure from 10 Downing Street. His statement was made the day before the UK marks the 10th anniversary of its vote to leave the European Union, a decision that continues to impact the country's economy and politics.

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

Speaking outside his official residence, Starmer's voice was emotional as he informed staff, Cabinet ministers, and journalists of his decision. He stated he had heard the answer of his parliamentary party regarding his leadership and accepted it with good grace. He also informed King Charles III of his decision.

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I will put myself forward as part of this process.