Keir Starmer has announced that he is stepping down as both prime minister and leader of the Labour Party.
Get today's headlines by email 
Starmer Announces Departure
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street, Starmer said he was resigning after a period in office during which, he argued, every decision had been guided by a commitment to put the country first.
His statement was delivered in front of the prime minister's residence, with live coverage available as the announcement unfolded.
Burnham Emerges as Leading Candidate
Attention has quickly turned to who could replace Starmer at the head of the government and the Labour Party.
Andy Burnham, widely viewed as a potential successor, is due to be in Westminster on Monday to be sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Makerfield. He secured the seat in a by-election last week.
Burnham's arrival in Parliament is expected to intensify speculation about the party's next leadership move.
Labour Weighs Succession Process
Within Labour, many figures are reportedly anticipating what is known as a "coronation" process if Starmer's resignation triggers a leadership transition.
Under that scenario, Burnham would stand as the sole candidate, avoiding a contested leadership race and allowing him to take over without a lengthy campaign.
Questions Over Timing
Current expectations suggest Burnham could formally assume the leadership by late September, around the time of Labour's annual party conference.
However, some of his supporters believe that timetable would take too long and argue that the transition should happen more quickly.
The coming weeks are likely to determine both the process and the pace of Labour's leadership change following Starmer's departure.
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 22 June 2026