Keir Starmer is reportedly close to resigning as UK Prime Minister, with multiple outlets including the Financial Times, the Observer, and the Guardian suggesting he may announce a timeline for his departure as early as June 22, 2026.
A senior ally reportedly pegged Starmer’s chances of remaining in his leadership role at just 25%.
What triggered the crisis
The proximate cause is a by-election in Makerfield on June 18, 2026, where Andy Burnham won with 54.8% of the vote.
Burnham’s decisive victory came against a backdrop of disappointing Labour performances across local and regional elections. Senior Labour peers have reportedly begun advocating openly for a leadership transition.
