Keir Starmer resigns as UK prime minister after growing Labour pressure

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as prime minister and leader of the Labour Party, bringing an end to a turbulent period marked by mounting pressure from within his own party.

Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on Monday, Sir Keir said every decision he had made in office had been guided by what he believed was best for the country.

"Every decision I have made has been about putting the country I love first," he said.

The outgoing prime minister also paid tribute to his family, thanking his wife, Victoria, whom he described as a "rock" throughout his time in office.

He said he now wanted to focus on being "the best dad I can" to his children, calling them his "pride and joy".

Sir Keir's departure follows months of speculation about his future, as growing numbers of Labour MPs questioned his leadership after a series of political setbacks and declining public support.

Attention has now turned to who will succeed him. One of the leading contenders is Andy Burnham, who is due to be sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Makerfield after winning a by-election last week.

Many Labour figures expect Mr Burnham to emerge as the party's next leader without facing a significant challenge, raising the prospect of a swift transition. Supporters of the former Greater Manchester mayor have reportedly pushed for an accelerated timetable to avoid a prolonged period of uncertainty.

If Labour opts for an uncontested leadership process, Mr Burnham could take over as party leader and prime minister by the time of the Labour Party conference in September, although some allies believe the handover should happen sooner.

Sir Keir's resignation opens a new chapter for Labour as it seeks to restore unity and prepare for the next general election.