Starmer quits Parliament weeks after stepping down as UK PM

Former British prime minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday announced that he will step down as an MP, bringing his parliamentary career to an end just weeks after leaving Downing Street. Starmer, 63, said he had decided over the summer that it was the “right time” to leave the House of Commons and hand over his Holborn and St Pancras seat to a successor. His departure will trigger a by-election in the north London constituency he has represented since 2015.

Starmer had previously indicated that he intended to remain in Parliament until the next general election after resigning as prime minister and Labour leader. He was succeeded by Andy Burnham in July following mounting pressure within Labour after poor local election results and declining support for his leadership.

Focus shifts overseas

Explaining his plans, Starmer said he would now concentrate on international affairs, particularly defence, security, trade and technology. He also intends to continue campaigning against violence against women and girls, an issue he worked on before entering Parliament.

Starmer described representing Holborn and St Pancras as a “huge honour and privilege” and paid tribute to his predecessor, Frank Dobson. He said his decision followed reflection during the summer and that stepping aside would allow him to devote himself fully to his new areas of work.

By-election challenge for Labour

Starmer entered Parliament in 2015 and became Labour leader in 2020. Four years later, he led the party to a landslide general election victory, returning Labour to power after 14 years in opposition. His premiership, however, was increasingly overshadowed by falling approval ratings and internal party pressure before his eventual departure.

His resignation from Parliament now creates an early electoral test for Burnham’s government. Holborn and St Pancras has traditionally been a Labour stronghold, but the coming contest could attract prominent challengers. Green Party leader Zack Polanski is considering standing, while independent candidate Andrew Feinstein, who finished second to Starmer at the 2024 general election, could also enter the race.

Starmer said he would continue to support the Labour government and campaign for the party’s candidate in the forthcoming by-election.