Sir Keir Starmer is to step down as the MP for Holborn and St Pancras, reversing his earlier insistence that he would remain in the Commons after leaving Downing Street.
The former prime minister has informed local Labour officials of his decision to leave Parliament after 11 years representing the north London constituency. His departure will trigger a by-election in the traditionally safe Labour seat.
Mr Starmer told the Camden New Journal that he believed it was the “right time” to leave the House of Commons as he turns his attention to international affairs, including defence, security, trade and technology.
He also said he intended to continue campaigning against violence against women and girls, an issue he worked on before entering Parliament.
Mr Starmer became MP for Holborn and St Pancras in 2015, succeeding Labour veteran Frank Dobson. He went on to lead Labour from 2020 and became prime minister in July 2024, before resigning from Downing Street on July 20 this year.
Andy Burnham has since taken over as prime minister. In his final speech outside No 10, Mr Starmer said he was “passing the baton” to Mr Burnham and wished him every success.
The local Labour party will now begin selecting a candidate for the by-election. Mr Starmer said he would not endorse a successor at this stage, but would support whoever was chosen.
