Prime minister Keir Starmer has announced his resignation after months of mounting pressure inside the Labour Party.
He confirmed he will remain prime minister until Labour elects a new leader, expected before Parliament returns in September.
Speaking emotionally outside Downing Street today, Starmer thanked his “fantastic wife, Vic” and said he wanted to be the “best dad” he could be to his children.
Within minutes of the announcement, Andy Burnham confirmed he would stand to replace Starmer as Labour leader and prime minister.
Former health secretary Wes Streeting quickly endorsed Burnham’s bid, despite previously indicating he would run himself. Streeting said the party now needed unity rather than a long leadership battle.
Political commentators say Burnham now appears to be the overwhelming favourite, with some suggesting the contest could be effectively over before it formally begins.
Labour is expected to open leadership nominations in July, with a new leader potentially in place within weeks if no major challenger emerges.
In response to the announcement, Nathan Emerson, CEO at Propertymark, said: “Housing must remain at the heart of the political agenda. Landmark reforms continue to progress through Westminster, and they must deliver on their promises.
“We have seen some of the most significant changes to the rental sector in over 30 years with the implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act, alongside a commitment to build 1.5 million new homes to meet growing demand.
“Meeting future housing requirements requires clear political ambition and consistent leadership, especially as we embark on further reforms to the home buying and selling process.
Peter Otto, CEO of Sentai, an intelligent digital assistant for independent living, said: “Andy Burnham has helped bring social care back into the national conversation, and that can only be a positive thing.
“But while politicians debate reform, families are already living with the consequences of a system under pressure.
“Our research found almost half of people feel neither carers nor those receiving care have enough support or advice, while one in three people supporting an older relative experiences constant worry when they are not there.
“The social care debate often focuses on funding and reform, but for millions of families the issue is far more immediate: worrying about whether an older loved one is safe, well and supported when they’re not there.
“The challenge isn’t simply funding. It’s making sure people can access the right support earlier, before concerns about loneliness, falls or declining health become crises that place even greater pressure on families, health services and social care providers.”
