Keir Starmer has bowed to intense pressure and resigned as British prime minister, acknowledging he was no longer the right leader for the country. The announcement came after months of mounting discontent among Labour MPs and cabinet ministers, many concerned about the threat from Reform UK before the next election. Burnham is now all but certain to take over, with a new leader expected before Parliament returns in September.
Burnham will begin outlining his policy shift next week, starting with speeches on the economy and devolution, marking a clear departure from Starmer's government. He is considering appointing Ed Miliband as chancellor to challenge Treasury orthodoxy, though sources say Burnham is aware of potential risks with business and unions. Shabana Mahmood is expected to remain as home secretary, praised by Burnham for "facing up" to major challenges.
The resignation caps a dramatic day at Westminster. Starmer's departure timetable follows his historic election victory two years ago. The transition is seen as an attempt to stabilize the party amid internal divisions and external threats from Reform UK. Wes Streeting has publicly backed Burnham for the leadership.
Burnham faces the immediate task of uniting a fractured party and preparing for the next general election. His policy agenda, focused on devolution and economic reform, signals a symbolic shift from Starmer's centrist approach. The choice of Miliband as chancellor could reshape fiscal policy, but risks alienating both business interests and union allies.
Some within Labour question whether Burnham's rapid ascent will deepen internal rifts rather than heal them. Starmer's biographer noted the irony of demanding his resignation to avoid chaos, then keeping him on until Burnham is ready to take over.