Keir Starmer’s speech in full as he resigns as Prime Minister

It was an emotional speech

The announcement was made this morning (Monday 22 June) with Starmer addressing the nation from outside No 10.

It comes following reports before and over the weekend that Starmer would be considering his future ahead of today.
The Times reported on Friday that the prime minister was "set to consider his future this weekend" and will "make a decision with his wife and family".

This follows Andy Burnham's win in the Makerfield by-election, propelling him back into parliament after spending nine years as mayor of Greater Manchester.

Discontent inside and outside Labour came to a head in last month's local elections which saw his party lose over 1,400 councillors, much to the profit of Reform.

Starmer was elected as leader of the Labour Party on 4 April 2020, succeeding Jeremy Corbyn.

He became prime minister on 4 July 2024 with a majority in the House of Commons of 411 members (now 403).

He beat the opposition, the Conservatives with 121 (now 116 seats), comfortably.

Starmer's speech in full

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. 6 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 hard work of change was with a singular purpose. Not power for power's sake, but to change Britain for the better. To build a fairer country with dignity and respect, where everyone is seen, everyone is valued, wealth and opportunity for all, not just the privileged few.

Our reputation in the world restored, with Britain once again standing up for decency, respect, and the rule of law, securing trade deals, standing with Ukraine, standing up for our values and rebuilding our relationship with our allies in Europe.

Change promised by a Labour government, change fought for by a Labour government, change delivered by a Labour government.

But I know the question being asked now is not who was best placed to change the Labour Party, to take us into power, and to begin the vital work of improving lives for millions of people.

Those questions have been answered.

The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next General Election.

I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace. Every decision I've taken has been about putting the country I love first.

That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party. I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision. I will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on the 9th of July. And completed by the summer recess.

In the case of a contest, this will ensure a new leader is in place before Parliament returns in September. I will remain in post as Prime Minister until the contest is complete, and I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power.

I will also give my successor my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited 2 years ago, better prepared for the challenges ahead, and better able to ensure the Labour Party secures a second term in office.

I want to thank all of those friends and colleagues who have been at my side for these past 6 years or so for their incredible commitment, service, and support.

I want to thank the brilliant Number 10 staff and our country's extraordinary civil service who dedicate their lives to public service.

And when I leave the biggest job in the country, I shall spend more time on the most important job: being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife Vic, who has been a rock by my side through good times and bad, and being the best dad I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and my joy. Thank you very much.