- Keir Starmer has announced he is to stand down as MP for Holborn and St Pancras, stating it is the 'right time' to leave the Commons.
- In an interview with the Camden New Journal, Starmer expressed his desire to focus on international affairs and 'pass the baton to a successor'.
- His resignation will trigger a by-election in the central London seat, which is likely to be targeted by the Greens.
- Conservative chairman Kevin Hollinrake accused Starmer of making 'another U-turn' and prompting a 'costly by-election for taxpayers'.
- Starmer resigned as prime minister in July and initially stated he would remain an MP until the next general election, which must occur by 2029.
- His decision to stand down departs from recent precedent for former prime ministers, as many have continued serving as MPs for years after leaving office.
Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as MP for Holborn and St Pancras, citing it as the 'right time' to leave the Commons. In a statement, he expressed it had been a 'huge honour and privilege' to represent the constituency for 11 years.1
Starmer, who resigned as prime minister in July, indicated his desire to focus on international affairs, including defence, security, trade, and technology. He also emphasized his commitment to combating violence against women and girls, a cause he has championed since before his parliamentary career.5
His resignation will trigger a by-election in the central London seat, which is expected to attract attention from the Greens. Conservative chairman Kevin Hollinrake criticized Starmer's decision, suggesting it represents a 'U-turn' after he had previously pledged to remain in his role until the next general election, which must occur by 2029.3
Starmer's departure marks a shift from the recent precedent of former prime ministers, with Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss remaining MPs after leaving Downing Street. In contrast, both Boris Johnson and David Cameron resigned shortly after their premierships.
“Starmer's departure breaks recent precedent, as Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss remained MPs after leaving No 10, while Boris Johnson and David Cameron quit quickly. Conservative chairman Kevin Hollinrake accused him of 'another U-turn' and a 'costly by-election for taxpayers'.”
theguardian.com
bbc.com
