Keir Starmer has announced his decision to step down as leader of the UK Labour Party. He will remain the country’s prime minister until a successor is named. Candidates interested in succeeding him must first gain the backing of 81 Labour lawmakers from the House of Commons. Additionally, these candidates need support from either 5% of local constituency parties or three party affiliates, such as trade unions.

Voting for the new leader will involve members and affiliates of the party, using an electoral system that ranks the candidates. The candidate who secures over 50% of the vote will be invited by King Charles III to become the prime minister.

Timeline and Potential Candidates

Starmer announced that nominations for the leadership will start on July 9. If there is no contest, Andy Burnham could be confirmed as party leader shortly after. In the event of a contest, the election may continue into September.

Wes Streeting, who previously left his role as health secretary, has expressed his support for Burnham, indicating he will not run for leader himself. Other potential candidates, such as Angela Rayner and Al Carns, have not yet responded to Starmer’s resignation.

Why Burnham is a Front-runner

Andy Burnham is seen as the lead candidate to replace Starmer due to his potential to challenge the Reform Party, which has gained support over the Labour Party in recent polls. He has garnered favor by decisively defeating a Reform candidate in a special election for Parliament.

Olivia O’Sullivan from the Chatham House think tank comments that Burnham’s appeal to frustrated Labour Party members makes him a strong candidate. It is hoped Burnham will communicate a clearer vision, particularly in areas threatened by Reform Party influence.

International Reactions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Starmer for his cooperation and support. Zelenskyy praised the UK’s efforts in Europe and reiterated the country’s importance as a world leader.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre also acknowledged the relationship between the two countries, noting the strengthening of ties through climate agreements and defense cooperation. German officials, too, recognized Starmer’s involvement in foreign affairs, particularly regarding Ukraine.

Calls for Change

Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, has called for a general election, asserting that Labour has lost the public’s trust. Farage points to welfare and tax policies as major concerns. Ed Davey of the Liberal Democrats and Zack Polanski of the Green Party have echoed sentiments for political reform, emphasizing the need for genuine change over simple leadership replacement.

Starmer’s Leadership and Resignation

Starmer’s leadership began with a promising victory in 2024 but has been marred by internal conflicts and political challenges. His resignation follows a downturn in support, highlighted by setbacks in midterm elections. Starmer acknowledges his party’s current queries about his capability to lead into forthcoming elections and accepts their judgment.

As the Labour Party prepares for a potential leadership transition, Burnham stands ready to assume control, with support from key figures like Wes Streeting. The formal process to appoint a new leader is set to conclude by September.