Starmer says new PM to take over mid July if Burnham unopposed, or by end of August if there's election

 

2m ago

09.43 BST

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2026/jun/22/keir-starmer-resignation-timeable-andy-burnham-labour-leadership-prime-minister-latest-news-updates?page=with%3Ablock-6a38f3bf8f088f86b42f8138#top-of-blog

 

Starmer says new PM to take over mid July if Burnham unopposed, or by end of August if there's election

 

Starmer sets out the timetable for his departure.

 

I will ask the national executive committee of the Labour party to set out a timetable, with nominations opening on the 9th of July and completed by the summer recess.

 

In the case of a contest, this will ensure a new leader is in place before parliament returns in September.

 

I will remain in post as prime minister until the contest is complete, and I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power.

 

The Commons summer recess is due to start on 16 July and so, if Andy Burnham is unopposed (as seems increasingly likely – despite Wes Streeting previously saying he would definitely stand as a candidate), he will become PM in the middle of next month.

 

If there is a contest, the new PM will be in post by the end of August. The Commons returns after the summer recess on 1 Septemb