Sir Keir Starmer resigned as Prime Minister and Labour leader on Monday morning, triggering a leadership contest. Several MPs are expected to bid to replace him, with former Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham seen as the frontrunner after his by-election win in Makerfield on Friday prompted Sir Keir's departure.
Andy Burnham leads the race
Burnham, who will be sworn in as Makerfield MP on Monday afternoon, is considered the leading candidate. His by-election victory triggered Sir Keir's emotional resignation speech outside No 10 Downing Street.
Other potential contenders
Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting is also expected to challenge for the leadership. He resigned from the Cabinet several weeks ago in anticipation of Sir Keir quitting. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband is another option, though he may instead back Burnham to secure a top job in a potential Burnham cabinet. Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, previously touted as a contender, campaigned for Burnham in Makerfield, suggesting she may support his bid. Al Carns, who resigned as a defence minister criticising the Government's defence spending, could also enter the race.
Labour chairwoman thanks Starmer
Labour Party chairwoman Anna Turley, MP for Redcar and Cleveland, thanked Sir Keir for turning the party around from its worst defeat in nearly 100 years. In a letter published on social media, she said: “The thing I want to say most to you is thank you. Thank you for turning the Labour Party around from its worst defeat in nearly 100 years in just a few short years.” She added: “I’m sorry that the nature of politics now is so impatient, so unforgiving and so personally brutal.”
