Keir Starmer Announces Resignation as Labour Leader, Delivers Full Farewell Speech

Keir Starmer, who became prime minister in 2024, resigned on Monday as leader of the Labour Party amid a challenge from new Labour legislator Andy Burnham.

He had faced a series of scandals and missteps and ultimately lost the backing of his party.

Here is his resignation speech in full, delivered outside 10 Downing Street. He was applauded when he took the podium, and his voice cracked with emotion as he thanked his wife, Victoria Starmer, for her support.

“Thank you. Thank you.

Walking up this street two years ago was the proudest moment of my life. A new Labour government, the first in 14 years, a page in our country’s history turned after years of disappointment and despair. The chance to change the lives of millions of people for the better. That’s what I came into politics for.

The journey to that point was not easy. Six years ago, I inherited a Labour Party that was politically, financially, and morally bankrupt. I was told time and time again that my party was finished, that we were consigned to history, that a majority at the general election, let alone a landslide majority, was impossible.

But we proved those people wrong because we changed our party. We removed the poison of anti‑Semitaism, restored confidence in the economy, defence, and national security, and became a party that once again stood proudly with, not against, our national flag. The hard work of change was driven by a singular purpose: not power for power’s sake, but to improve Britain. To build a fairer country, with dignity and respect, where everyone is seen, valued, and has wealth and opportunity—not just the privileged few.

And look at what we’ve achieved in just two years. An economy that is stronger, growing faster than our peers. Wages rising faster than inflation every month since we came to power. Investment secured, infrastructure built, an end to austerity, and the fastest fall in NHS waiting lists in 17 years. The biggest improvement in rights for workers and renters in a generation. The largest increase in defence spending since the Cold War. Small‑boat crossings falling, asylum hotels closing, protection for young people online, and half a million children lifted out of poverty because of the choices we made.

Our reputation abroad restored, with Britain once again standing up for decency, respect, and the rule of law. Securing trade deals, supporting Ukraine, upholding our values, and rebuilding our relationship with our European allies. Change promised by a Labour government, change fought for by a Labour government, change delivered by a Labour government.

But I know the question being asked now is not who was best placed to change the Labour Party, to take us into power, and to begin the vital work of improving lives for millions of people. Those questions have been answered. 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.

Every decision I’ve taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party. I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision. I will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on 9 July and completed by the summer recess. In the case of a contest, this will ensure a new leader is in place before Parliament returns in September.

I will remain in post as prime minister until the contest is complete, and I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power. I will also give my successor my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago, better prepared for the challenges ahead, and better able to secure a second term for Labour.

I want to thank all of those friends and colleagues who have been at my side for these past six years, for their incredible commitment, service, and support. I also thank the brilliant Number 10 staff and our country’s extraordinary civil service, who dedicate their lives to public service.

When I leave the biggest job in the country, I will devote more time to the most important one: being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife Vic, who has been a rock by my side through good times and bad, and being the best dad I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and joy.

Thank you very much.”

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