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LONDON – Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce his resignation on Monday and outline an orderly timetable for his departure, according to a report by The Observer newspaper, as growing pressure within the ruling Labour Party threatens his political future.
The report comes after weeks of internal unrest within Labour, with a significant number of party lawmakers publicly calling for Starmer to step down following a series of political setbacks, declining public support, and controversy surrounding government decisions. Senior Labour figures are reportedly urging a managed transition to avoid a divisive leadership contest.
Andy Burnham, who recently returned to Parliament after a decisive by-election victory, is widely viewed as the leading contender to succeed Starmer. Reports suggest he has secured substantial backing among Labour MPs, although no formal leadership challenge has yet been launched. Other potential candidates, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting, have also been mentioned as possible successors.
Despite the reports, a government source cited by Reuters said Starmer remains focused on governing and has previously indicated that he would contest any leadership challenge rather than step aside voluntarily. No official announcement regarding his resignation had been made as of Sunday.
If Starmer resigns, Britain would see its seventh prime minister in just over a decade, underscoring a prolonged period of political volatility in the country. The expected announcement is being closely watched by political observers and international partners alike.