Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce his resignation as Prime Minister today, following intense pressure from within his own party.
Over the weekend, Starmer retreated to Chequers to ponder his future. Reports suggest he has concluded that a well-organised exit is necessary to prevent a disorderly leadership battle.
The tipping point in Starmer’s tenure appears to have been the recent Makerfield by-election. Andy Burnham, former Mayor of Greater Manchester, emerged victorious, defeating the Reform UK party decisively. His success has positioned him as a frontrunner to protect Labour’s traditional strongholds. Burnham will be sworn in as an MP in the House of Commons later today, clearing the path for his ascent to leadership.
Starmer’s support has evaporated rapidly over the past 48 hours. At least five senior cabinet ministers, including Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, have urged him to set a departure date.
Reports this morning indicate that Burnham enjoys the backing of nearly 300 Labour MPs, while fewer than 30 MPs believe Starmer can remain in office.
The crisis has also attracted international attention, with US President Donald Trump commenting on Truth Social that Starmer “will resign” after “failing badly” on immigration and energy policies. Downing Street confirmed that there has been no communication between Starmer and Trump over the weekend.
