Starmer Leaves Downing Street, Bows Out as UK PM

Keir Starmer left Downing Street on Monday, saying he was leaving Britain “stronger and fairer” as he stepped down as prime minister to make way for his successor, Andy Burnham.

“I am confident that Britain is now stronger and fairer than it was two years ago,” Starmer told reporters in his farewell speech outside his No. 10 office in central London.

“I go with good grace, I go with a smile, and I go proud of everything that we have achieved,” he added, before heading to Buckingham Palace to tender his resignation to King Charles III.

Britain’s outgoing prime minister Keir Starmer makes a statement in front of 10 Downing Street in central London on July 20, 2026, before formally tendering his resignation to the king. (Photo by Henry NICHOLLS / AFP)

Starmer’s departure comes after a string of scandals, missteps and policy U-turns blighted his leadership, leading to his resignation as Labour Party leader in late June.

He led Labour to a landslide election victory in July 2024 after 14 years of Conservative rule.

Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, is expected to be formally appointed prime minister by the King later on Monday before delivering his first speech outside Downing Street.

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Jimisayo Opanuga

Jimisayo Opanuga is a web writer in the Digital Department at News Central TV, where she covers African and international stories. Her reporting focuses on social issues, health, justice, and the environment, alongside general-interest news. She is passionate about telling stories that inform the public and give voice to underreported communities.