UK ex-PM Starmer to quit parliament, focus on ‘international affairs’

Former UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Tuesday that he will resign from Parliament to focus on international affairs. In a statement on social media, Starmer cited the need to step aside after 11 years representing the Holborn and St Pancras constituency in London. The Labour Party leader, who resigned amid mounting pressure from fellow MPs, said the time was right to shift his attention to issues such as defence, security, trade, and technology in a rapidly changing world.

Starmer's decision to leave Parliament follows the appointment of Andy Burnham as interim party leader in July, replacing Starmer who had become increasingly unpopular during his tenure. Starmer, a former human rights lawyer, played a crucial role in revitalizing the centre-left Labour Party, leading it to a significant electoral victory in 2024.

However, his leadership was marred by numerous missteps, prompting his resignation and paving the way for the next leader in Britain's cycle of prime ministers.