U.K. prime minister announces resignation, launching contest for successor

U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation as leader of the Labour Party on Monday, June 22, 2026, after informing the King. Starmer will step down once a new leader is appointed. Andy Burnham, 56, is considered a likely successor for the British prime minister role. Burnham has rapidly secured support from Labour Party lawmakers, potentially preventing a divisive internal contest for leadership following the incumbent's decision to leave his position.