Stage One · The First Unravelling
The First Unravelling: The Resignation, Fact by Fact
The resignation has been announced, but the transfer is not yet complete. Starmer remains the listed Prime Minister while the system prepares the next occupant of No. 10.
Open the interactive version →Key facts
- Who: Sir Keir Starmer — PM since 5 July 2024, Labour leader since April 2020 — and Andy Burnham, the frontrunner to replace him.
- What: a resignation as Labour leader, an orderly handover, and a caretaker premiership until the contest completes.
- Where: a statement delivered outside 10 Downing Street.
- When: Monday 22 June 2026, with nominations expected to open on 9 July.
- Why: Labour MPs concluded he was not the best person to lead them into the next election, after Burnham's Makerfield win.
Frequently asked
Did England's Prime Minister resign?
Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, announced his resignation as Labour leader on 22 June 2026 but remains caretaker Prime Minister until a successor is chosen.
Has Keir Starmer been asked to resign?
Pressure had built for months from within the parliamentary party and Cabinet, driven by poor polling, the rise of Reform UK and Andy Burnham's by-election victory.