United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer has officially resigned from office, ending his two-year tenure as the UK’s leader and paving the way for Andy Burnham to become the country’s new Prime Minister following his election as Labour Party leader.

Starmer announced his resignation on Monday during an emotional farewell speech outside 10 Downing Street, saying he was leaving office with pride after fulfilling the mandate he believed he was elected to accomplish. His departure marks a significant political transition in the United Kingdom as Burnham prepares to unveil a new administration.

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Addressing supporters and the media before departing Downing Street, Starmer reflected on his time in office and expressed satisfaction with his government’s achievements.

The outgoing prime minister thanked the British public for the opportunity to serve, insisting that it was the appropriate time to step aside.

“I go with good grace, I go with a smile and I go proud of everything that we have achieved,” Starmer said.

He added:

“My work is done.”

Starmer also pledged his full support to Andy Burnham, expressing confidence in his successor’s ability to lead the country through its next chapter.

King Charles Accepts Starmer’s Resignation

Following his farewell remarks, Starmer travelled to Buckingham Palace, where he formally tendered his resignation to King Charles III.

In an official statement, Buckingham Palace confirmed that the monarch accepted the resignation.

The palace stated:

“Sir Keir Starmer MP had an audience of The King this morning and tendered his resignation as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury, which His Majesty was graciously pleased to accept.”

The statement also confirmed that Lady Starmer accompanied the outgoing prime minister during the audience with the King.

Andy Burnham Becomes New UK Prime Minister

With Starmer’s resignation accepted, King Charles III invited Andy Burnham to form a new government after his victory in the Labour Party leadership election on Friday.

The invitation officially makes Burnham the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

He is expected to deliver his first address outside 10 Downing Street before announcing members of his Cabinet and outlining the priorities of his administration.

Political observers expect Burnham to quickly begin implementing changes within government as he assembles his ministerial team.

Government Reshuffle Begins

The transition has already triggered changes within government, with Prisons Minister Lord Timpson resigning shortly before Burnham formally assumed office.

The resignation is viewed as the first major Cabinet change under the incoming administration and signals the beginning of a wider government reshuffle expected in the coming days.

Burnham is anticipated to appoint new ministers and redefine his government’s policy direction as he begins his tenure as Britain’s new leader.

Political Transition Opens New Chapter for Britain

Starmer’s resignation closes a two-year administration that focused on governance reforms and national policy priorities under the Labour government.

As Andy Burnham assumes office, attention will now shift to his Cabinet appointments, economic agenda, and plans for addressing the United Kingdom’s key domestic and international challenges.

His first policy announcements and ministerial appointments are expected to shape the direction of the new government in the weeks ahead.