Keir Starmer quits Parliament after 11 years; turns focus to global affairs

London: Former British prime minister Keir Starmer has announced that he will step down as an MP, saying he wants to focus on international affairs including defence, security, trade and technology.

Starmer said on Tuesday that he would resign as the representative for Holborn and St Pancras in London, a seat he has held for 11 years. His departure will trigger a by-election in the constituency.

In a statement posted on social media, Starmer said he believed it was the “right time” to leave parliament and turn his attention to issues beyond domestic politics.

“It is now time to step aside and focus on other issues: international affairs including defence, security, trade and technology in a fast-changing world,” he said.

Starmer had reportedly informed the Labour Party of his decision, according to the Camden New Journal. He represented the constituency for 11 years and served as Labour leader for six of them.

From Labour victory to political downfall

A former human rights lawyer, Starmer took over the leadership of Labour and is credited with steering the centre-left party back towards power.

Under his leadership, Labour secured a landslide victory in the 2024 general election, bringing the party back to government after 14 years in opposition.

However, Starmer's time in Downing Street was marked by falling popularity and a series of political setbacks. Mounting criticism from within his own party eventually forced him to announce his resignation as Labour leader and prime minister this summer.

Andy Burnham was subsequently brought in as prime minister in July, replacing Starmer amid growing pressure from Labour MPs.

(AP)