UK government leadership changes as Keir Starmer resigns and backs Andy Burnham
Britain enters a leadership transition after Keir Starmer says he is resigning as prime minister and handing over to Andy Burnham. The departure comes in a speech on the steps of Downing Street in which he argues the country is stronger and fairer than it was two years ago.
Highlights
- Keir Starmer resigned as UK prime minister after Labour's 2024 landslide victory, endorsing Andy Burnham as his successor with full support.
- Starmer claims the UK economy is stronger, public services are recovering with the largest reduction in 17 years' waiting times, and significant falls in immigration.
- Starmer emphasizes national unity, strengthened UK defence and security, and ongoing government support for Ukraine amid external attempts to divide the country.
Downing Street transition and handover
As stated in a speech published by GOV.UK, Starmer says he is offering his resignation and closing the book on his time as prime minister, adding that his work is done. He says he took Labour from its 2019 defeat to a landslide general election victory in 2024, and describes serving as prime minister as the privilege of his life.In the same address, Starmer says he is passing the baton to Andy Burnham and wishes him every success, adding that Burnham has his full support. He also thanks his family, staff at Number 10, the civil service and Labour Party supporters, saying the changes delivered by his government belong to a wider team effort.
Economic record and broader policy message
Starmer frames his departure around a record of economic and public service improvement, saying the economy is stronger and public services are recovering, including what he calls the biggest fall in waiting times for 17 years. He also says children are being lifted out of poverty daily, immigration is down significantly, and the UK's defence, security and international standing are on a stronger footing.He uses the speech to stress national unity amid what he describes as external efforts to divide Britain over its values and support for Ukraine. Starmer says the country retains the capacity to fix its problems and create broader opportunity, arguing that Britain can unite different communities under a common national purpose.
Our earlier report on Andy Burnham’s move to Downing Street outlined how Keir Starmer’s resignation set up a rapid handover and Burnham’s first signals on policy. We noted expectations for an early cost-of-living package, a cabinet reshuffle, and renewed investor focus on taxes, public spending, and potential state intervention in key sectors.
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