Keir Starmer has announced that he is to resign as British Prime Minister and Labour Party leader.
This announcement comes amid mounting pressure in recent days, following Andy Burnham's victory at the recent Makerfield by-election. The next Prime Minister is set to be Britain's seventh in just over a decade.
In a speech outside Westminister, Keir Starmer said that the process of appointing a new Labour Party leader would begin next month. He also said that he would remain as British Prime Minister until his successor is confirmed, which is to be announced in September.
"Walking up this street two years ago was the proudest moment of my life, a new Labour government, the first in 14 years, a page in our country's history turned after years of disappointment and despair, the chance to change the lives of millions of people for the better, that's what I came into politics for the journey to that point was not easy", Mr Starmer said in his speech.
He continued: "Six years ago, I inherited a Labour Party that was politically, financially, and morally bankrupt".
"I was told time and time again that my party was finished, that we were consigned to history, that a majority at the general election, let alone a landslide majority, was impossible, but we proved those people wrong, because we changed our party, ripping out the poison of antisemitism, restoring trust on the economy, defence, and national security, and becoming a party that once again stood proudly with, not against, our national flag".
"The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election", he added. "I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.
"Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first".
"That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party".
Concluding his speech, a visibly emotional Mr Starmer also thanked his wife Victoria for her support. They both stood at No 10 Downing Street, before going back in. They received loud applause and cheers as Mr Starmer's team stood outside the building.
Following this announcement, Reform UK leader, Nigel Farage has called for a general election. He said that his party are ready to deliver radical change.
