Starmer expected to announce PM exit plan as Burnham enters Parliament

WorldPolitics
22 Jun 2026 • 1:56 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Starmer expected to announce PM exit plan as Burnham enters Parliament

  • Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly discussing a plan to hand over the Labour leadership to Andy Burnham, with an announcement expected on Monday.
  • The prime minister is at Chequers, taking soundings from ministers and allies, as he considers his departure, which could be as early as mid-July or by early September.
  • Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and other senior Labour figures have urged Sir Keir to set a timetable for his departure, following mounting pressure after Andy Burnham's by-election victory.
  • A symbolic photocall for Andy Burnham in Parliament on Monday has fuelled speculation of a “coronation”, though a deal with Wes Streeting, who also seeks the leadership, would be necessary.
  • A US president, Donald Trump, commented on the situation, stating on Truth Social that Sir Keir “will resign” due to perceived failures on immigration and energy.

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