Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Prime Minister this morning in an emotional address delivered outside 10 Downing Street, bringing his tenure to an end after less than two years in office.
The Prime Minister confirmed he had spoken with King Charles earlier this morning to formally notify him of his decision to step down.
The King was at Highgrove, his estate in Gloucestershire, and spoke with Sir Keir over the phone this morning.
Sir Keir will still have to meet the King in person later to formally tender his resignation during an audience, as is tradition.
The Prime Minister confirmed he had spoken with King Charles earlier this morning to formally notify him of his decision to step down.
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The 63-year-old’s departure follows a weekend of deliberation with his family at Chequers, the country retreat used by serving prime ministers.
Addressing questions from within his own party about whether he should lead Labour into the next general election, Sir Keir stated: “I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.”
The outgoing leader has requested that Labour’s National Executive Committee establish a timetable for selecting his replacement, with nominations set to begin on 9 July and the process concluding before the summer parliamentary recess.
This schedule is designed to guarantee that a successor takes charge prior to MPs returning to Westminster in September.
Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Prime Minister this morning in an emotional address delivered outside 10 Downing Street, bringing his tenure to an end after less than two years in office.
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Sir Keir pledged to do everything possible to facilitate a smooth handover of power during the transition period.
He will continue serving as Prime Minister on a caretaker basis until the party membership chooses its new leader through the forthcoming contest.
Andy Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor, is widely regarded as the leading contender to succeed Sir Keir as Labour leader.
Mr Burnham secured victory in the Makerfield by-election and is anticipated to travel to Westminster later today to take his oath as a Member of Parliament.
Andy Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor, is widely regarded as the leading contender to succeed Sir Keir as Labour leader.
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His return to the Commons positions him to enter the leadership race from within the parliamentary party.
Wes Streeting, who previously served as health secretary, is another figure expected to declare his candidacy for the top job.
The contest will determine who becomes Britain’s next prime minister without a general election being called.