Starmer to resign? Report claims UK PM to announce exit as early as Monday

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce his resignation as early as Monday (Jun 22) and has set out a timetable for his departure, The Observer reported. It stated that Starmer concluded that his position as Prime Minister was no longer sustainable following discussions with cabinet ministers, advisers, donors, and trade union leaders. The report added that these discussions had a significant influence on his decision. This comes amid growing concerns over Britain’s leadership stability and mounting internal pressure within the Labour Party.

The report added that Starmer was discussing the issue with his wife at his Chequers country residence before making a final call. Senior Labour Party leaders were said to be anticipating a clear statement on his future as early as Monday.

Andy Burnham’s win challenges Starmer

The pressure on the British PM intensified after Andy Burnham’s decisive win in the Makerfield by-election, which has led to growing speculation over a potential leadership challenge within the Labour Party. According to reports, several Labour MPs are calling for Starmer to outline a timetable for his departure and oversee a smooth transition to Burnham rather than a potential leadership battle.

Burnham’s allies have urged Starmer to reflect and consult with cabinet ministers, MPs and his family. Meanwhile, teams representing Burnham and Wes Streeting, another possible contender, have largely kept a low profile, a move viewed by some observers as an attempt to avoid increasing pressure on the prime minister while he considers his options.

Reports suggested that Starmer has also been consulting members of his cabinet to assess the strength of support within the government. Some senior figures are believed to have encouraged him to consider setting out a timetable for stepping down, though no final decision has been announced.

What did Starmer say earlier?

However, earlier this month, Starmer rejected suggestions that he would step down voluntarily, saying that he would not “walk away” from his role. In an interview with the BBC, Starmer said: “I’m not going to walk away.” Clarifying his intention to continue, he said: “Let me be clear that this is not about personal vanity, it is not about stubbornness, it is about a very deep sense of duty. I was elected to serve this country notwithstanding difficult circumstances – that is what I am doing.” Claiming that his government has stabilised the economy, increased defence spending and invested in public services, he added, “Well, that’s what I want to do. I recognise that I’ve got to turn things around. We had a very bad set of elections.”

Watch | Italian PM Meloni Accuses Trump of Lying Over G7 Encounter