Keir Starmer announces he is standing down as MP
- On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced he will stand down as PM for Holborn and St Pancras after 11 years, triggering a by-election in the London constituency.
- Conservative Party chairman Kevin Hollinrake labeled the resignation "another U-turn," noting Starmer previously pledged to remain in Parliament after being replaced as Prime Minister by Andy Burnham in July.
- Explaining his decision, Starmer said it was the "right time" to "pass the baton to a successor" and focus on international affairs, including "defence, security, trade and technology."
- Labour holds the seat with an 11,572-vote majority, though the Green Party secured 10.4% in 2024, and Green leader Zack Polanski has expressed interest in contesting the by-election.
- The by-election marks the sixth such contest this year as Prime Minister Andy Burnham prepares for his first House of Commons statement facing criticism over potential tax rises.
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The past months have been far from a success story for Keir Starmer. After his replacement as Prime Minister, the Labour politician makes another decision.
Keir Starmer has announced his intention to resign as an MP after leaving office as prime minister. Starmer rose to the prime minister's post in 2024 with the Labour Party, having secured one of the largest parliamentary majorities in modern British history. However, during his premiership he failed to connect with voters, steadily losing the support of public opinion and his party.
Former U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer Steps Down From Parliament. Read His Statement Here
"It is now time to step aside and focus on other issues: international affairs including defense, security, trade, and technology in a fast-changing world," Starmer said.
In July, he said he would retain his mandate as a member of the lower house until the next parliamentary elections.
Protothema
insider.grStarmer had previously said he would remain an MP until the next general election but has changed his mind and now intends to "focus on international affairs"
FORMER British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is resigning as an MP to focus on international politics after losing his party's support.
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