Starmer quits as PM as Burnham returns to Westminster – but what happens next?

WorldPolitics
22 Jun 2026 • 11:54 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Starmer quits as PM as Burnham returns to Westminster – but what happens next?

  • Sir Keir Starmer has resigned as Labour leader, acknowledging he had lost the support of his MPs and promising an "orderly handover of power" to his successor.
  • Andy Burnham, following his success in the Makerfield by-election, appears on course to become the next Prime Minister, with his candidacy significantly bolstered by the backing of former health secretary Wes Streeting.
  • If Mr Burnham is the sole candidate to secure the necessary support from 81 Labour MPs by the July 16 deadline, he could be appointed Prime Minister without a leadership contest by mid-July.
  • In his emotional resignation statement, Sir Keir defended his record and expressed his intention to spend more time with his family, while pledging full support to his successor.
  • Mr Burnham, who was formally sworn in as an MP hours after Sir Keir's announcement, played down the prospect of calling a snap general election if he assumes the premiership, stating that the Labour movement is entering a "positive process of renewal".

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