Andy Burnham appointed UK prime minister after Keir Starmer's resignation
Keir Starmer resigned as prime minister on Monday and was succeeded by Labour leader Andy Burnham, who will be invited by King Charles III to form a new government.
Outgoing Labour prime minister Keir Starmer travelled to Buckingham Palace on Monday to tender his resignation to King Charles III. Shortly thereafter, Labour leader Andy Burnham is expected to meet the monarch and be asked to form a new government, becoming the United Kingdom's seventh prime minister in ten years.
Starmer, who led Labour to a landslide victory in the 2024 general election, delivered a final speech outside 10 Downing Street, describing his tenure as "the privilege of my life" and stating that Britain was "stronger and fairer" than two years earlier. He announced his departure with remarks about leaving "with good grace, with a smile, and proud of everything we have achieved."
Internal party pressure grew after Labour lost seats in recent local elections and faced criticism over policy implementation and a controversial diplomatic appointment. Starmer stepped down as party leader on June 22, and Burnburn assumed the role on Friday, in accordance with the parliamentary system that allows a governing party to replace its leader without a general election.
Burnham, a former MP and mayor of Greater Manchester, returned to Parliament in a recent by-election. He has pledged to reverse plans for digital ID cards, halt the privatization of public transit and utilities, and shift powers from central government to regional authorities. Polls indicate he enjoys high popularity among UK politicians.
The transition occurs amid ongoing economic challenges, including rising living costs and slow growth, as well as the United Kingdom's relationship with the United States.