Keir Starmer expected to announce departure as prime minister on Monday

Keir Starmer is expected to announce his resignation as prime minister on Monday, June 23, 2026, following significant pressure from Labour Members of Parliament. This anticipated departure comes after Andy Burnham secured a return to Westminster in the Makerfield byelection, a development that intensified calls for Starmer to step aside. For weeks, Starmer and his close associates had publicly stated their intention to resist any leadership challenge, particularly before the Makerfield contest. However, the overwhelming sentiment among Labour MPs appears to have shifted, leading to the current expectation of Starmer's resignation. The business secretary indicated that Starmer has been contemplating the "political realities" of his position, suggesting a period of reflection on the viability of his leadership amidst internal party dynamics. The potential succession of Andy Burnham as the next Labour leader is a significant factor in these unfolding political events.