Andy Burnham has confirmed he will run to replace Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister after the latter announced his resignation in an emotional speech outside 10 Downing Street on June 22, 2026. Starmer set a timetable for a new Labour leader to be in place by the end of summer.
Burnham's Landslide Victory Triggers Leadership Change
The resignation came just three days after Burnham's thumping victory in the Makerfield by-election, where he defeated Reform UK and increased Labour's vote share. Speculation over Starmer's future had mounted over the weekend before he confirmed his plans.
Burnham delivered a farewell speech to staff at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, ending his nine-year mayoralty. He will be sworn in as Makerfield MP this afternoon at Westminster.
Full Statement from Andy Burnham
In a post on X, Burnham said: "Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication during such a challenging period. His decision marks the beginning of a transition and it is important that this process is conducted in an orderly and responsible way."
"I will put myself forward as part of this process. The country expects stability, seriousness and a continued focus on the issues that matter most and that is what it will get."
"As we move forward, our priority must be to work together to get the country back to where we all want it to be. People want to see progress on economic growth, cost of living, public services, housing and opportunities for the next generation."
"Political change should never distract from the responsibility to improve people's lives. The Labour movement has always been at its strongest when it looks forward with confidence and purpose. This is what we will do from here and we will make sure this transition is a positive process of renewal for our party and our country."
