Former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer Resigns as MP

Sir Keir Starmer has declared his intention to resign as a Member of Parliament to concentrate on a forthcoming role in international affairs.

This resignation will necessitate a by-election in the London constituency of Holborn and St Pancras, a traditional Labour stronghold he has represented since 2015.

Having vacated Downing Street in July, Sir Keir had previously pledged to remain an MP until the next general election, scheduled for 2029.

However, in a surprise announcement made just hours before his successor, Andy Burnham, delivered his maiden speech in the House of Commons, he stated he was stepping down to focus on international affairs and combating violence against women and girls.

Paying tribute to his predecessor, Burnham commended Sir Keir’s efforts regarding Ukraine and the Hillsborough Law, legislation introduced under his government to enhance the accountability of public officials, which is currently progressing through Parliament.

“He has dedicated his lifetime to public service, particularly championing the cause of justice,” Burnham added.

“His leadership transformed our party from one of its most devastating defeats to its greatest triumphs, establishing a platform to improve the nation. We will build upon it, and we wish his family all the best for the future.”

Upon announcing his resignation to the Camden New Journal, external, Sir Keir described it as a “huge honour and privilege” to represent the London constituency for 11 years, concluding weeks of speculation regarding his continued tenure.

He further stated he was prepared to “pass the baton to a successor,” telling the publication that the moment was “right” for him to depart Parliament.

He stated: “I will now turn my attention to other matters, specifically international affairs encompassing defence, security, trade, and technology within a rapidly evolving global landscape. I will also persist in my longstanding efforts to combat violence against women and girls, an issue of profound personal significance. It is work I initiated before becoming an MP, and I am determined to continue pursuing it outside of Parliament. Therefore, my focus will be split between international affairs and advancing my work against violence targeting women and girls.”

Sir Keir assumed the premiership following a historic landslide victory in the 2024 election, but resigned from Number 10 after facing mounting pressure from Labour MPs to step down.

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