Former UK PM Keir Starmer to step down as MP to focus on international affairs

politics political figures elections lawmakers

Former Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced his resignation as the Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras, triggering a by-election. The decision signals the end of his domestic political career after 11 years representing the London seat.

Starmer stated it is the right time to leave the Commons and pass the baton to a successor. He intends to shift his focus toward international affairs, specifically defense, security, trade, and technology in a fast-changing world.

Elected as an MP in May 2015, Starmer rose to become the Labour leader in 2020 before leading the party to a landslide general election victory in 2024. This resignation follows his departure from Downing Street in July, when he was pushed out as prime minister by his party.

The move comes as a change in plans for the former prime minister, who had previously indicated that he would remain a lawmaker until the next general election.

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