Sir Keir Starmer has announced he will step down as the Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras, triggering a by-election in his north London constituency. The decision comes as Andy Burnham assumes the role of prime minister, following Starmer’s resignation in July amid declining support within his party.
Starmer, who served as MP for Holborn and St Pancras for 11 years, said he believed now was the “right time” to leave the House of Commons and focus on international affairs, including defence, security, trade, and technology. He also highlighted his continued commitment to combating violence against women and girls, a cause he has supported for many years.
The departure coincides with significant challenges faced by the Labour Party under Starmer’s leadership. Despite a landslide general election victory earlier in 2024, the party suffered substantial losses in local elections, losing nearly 1,500 councillor seats and control of 38 councils across England. These results contributed to mounting pressure within Labour and culminated in Starmer stepping down as prime minister to allow Burnham to take over.
Burnham secured his premiership following a decisive victory in the Makerfield by-election, which served as a catalyst for the leadership change. With Burnham poised to deliver his first speech as prime minister to the House of Commons, Starmer’s exit marks the end of a turbulent period for the party.
The move is also seen as easing tensions within Labour, where there had been concerns that Starmer’s supporters might form a faction to challenge Burnham’s leadership. Meanwhile, the upcoming by-election in Holborn and St Pancras is anticipated to be a critical test for Burnham’s ability to regain lost support. The Green Party leader, Zack Polanski, who has expressed interest in the seat, has not ruled out contesting the race.
The announcement drew criticism from the Conservative Party, with party chair Kevin Hollinrake describing Starmer’s decision to step down as a costly and untimely “U-turn,” particularly in a context where the new Labour administration under Burnham and Chancellor John Healey is considering tax increases. Hollinrake called the upcoming by-election an opportunity for voters to support a “stronger economy and a stronger country.”
Starmer praised his predecessor, Frank Dobson, and expressed gratitude for representing what he described as one of the country’s best constituencies. As he prepares to leave Parliament, Starmer emphasized his intention to continue his international work and advocacy outside the legislative chamber.