Starmer to remain MP but exit cabinet race as Burnham prepares to take office
Downing Street confirms departing prime minister will serve out his parliamentary term but decline a ministerial role in Andy Burnham’s new government.
Keir Starmer has confirmed he will retain his seat as Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras following his resignation as prime minister, though he is unlikely to accept a cabinet position in Andy Burnham’s incoming administration. Downing Street stated that Starmer’s departure marks the conclusion of his political journey, with his spokesperson noting that while some MPs had floated the idea of a foreign secretary role, Starmer had no expectation of taking up such an offer.
The transition process has been accelerated to allow Burnham immediate access to talks with the civil service, including the Cabinet Secretary, Antonia Romeo, before he formally enters Downing Street. This arrangement mirrors the protocol typically reserved for the leader of the opposition ahead of a general election, ensuring continuity in governance. Starmer has committed to making no new major policy or spending decisions that could constrain his successor, with the exception of the defence investment plan, which is considered settled.
Relations between the two leaders appear strained, following a meeting on Tuesday described by aides as “frosty.” The discussion, held away from 10 Downing Street and lasting approximately one hour, was the first since the Makerfield byelection. Sources indicated a clear tension between the outgoing and incoming leadership, though one source emphasised that Starmer remains focused on national interests despite the lack of warmth in their interactions.
Starmer is scheduled to attend the NATO summit in Ankara next month as one of his final official acts, where he is expected to deliver the defence investment plan. He will continue to serve in the Commons for the remainder of his term, having secured an 11,000 majority in his central London constituency. While his seat is currently secure, it is viewed as a significant target for the Greens should he choose to vacate it in the future.
Andy Burnham is expected to enter Downing Street on 17 July if he remains unopposed as the successor candidate. During prime minister’s questions on Wednesday, Starmer reflected on his tenure, expressing pride in the Labour MPs’ landslide victory and noting the historic losses inflicted on the Conservative party. He affirmed his intention to remain a Labour MP, stating, “This is the end of my journey, but this is not the end of yours.”