Prime Minister Keir Starmer's surprise resignation has sent shockwaves through Westminster, leaving Labour MPs scrambling for answers on what lies ahead for the party. As he reflected on his two-year tenure in office, one thing was clear: the path to this moment had been fraught with challenges from the outset.
Starmer acknowledged that when he took over as leader in 2020, the Labour Party was a shell of its former self - "politically, financially and morally bankrupt" after the crushing defeat in the 2019 general election and internal strife under Jeremy Corbyn. He stressed that many thought the party was beyond redemption, yet his subsequent success as opposition leader and electoral triumph demonstrated his ability to turn things around against all odds.
Highlighting several key achievements during his time in office, Starmer pointed to the significant reduction in poverty among half a million children, largely attributed to the abolition of the two-child benefit cap - a policy he initially opposed but later implemented under pressure from MPs and ministers. He also highlighted advancements in global affairs, improved rights for renters and workers, and a decrease in immigration figures.
However, it was clear that his own leadership had become an issue within Labour ranks. Starmer's decision to step down came after losing the confidence of his parliamentary party, a move he accepted "with good grace". He insisted that every choice he made as Prime Minister was driven by putting the country first, and that his resignation was not taken lightly.
The next chapter in Labour's story is now unfolding, with nominations for the leadership contest set to open on 9th July. If a single candidate emerges, a new leader could be in place by mid-July; if a full party ballot is required, it may take longer. This allows Starmer one final engagement at the NATO summit in Ankara and time to consolidate his legacy projects before handing over to his successor.
As he closed his speech, Starmer expressed his intention to devote more time to his family - a role he described as the most important - thanking his wife Victoria and their two teenage children for their unwavering support throughout his tenure.