Former United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that he will step down as the Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras, bringing his parliamentary career to an end after years representing the London constituency.
Starmer made the announcement on Tuesday, saying he would now turn his attention to issues including international affairs, defence, security, trade and technology.
“I will now focus on other things and that will be international affairs including defence, security, trade and technology in a fast-changing world,” Starmer was quoted as saying by the Camden New Journal.
Keir Starmer to leave Holborn and St Pancras seat
Starmer’s decision follows his resignation as UK prime minister and Labour Party leader on June 22. He was subsequently succeeded by Andy Burnham, who took office as prime minister on July 20.
The announcement also ends speculation over whether Starmer would continue as an MP after leaving Downing Street.
His resignation from the Holborn and St Pancras constituency is expected to trigger a by-election. Voters in the London constituency will therefore choose a new representative for the seat.
Starmer had represented the constituency since 2015 and had served as Labour Party leader before becoming prime minister.
Starmer shifts focus to international affairs
In announcing his decision, Starmer indicated that his next phase would focus on issues extending beyond domestic parliamentary politics.
He specifically highlighted defence, security, international affairs, trade and technology, pointing to what he described as a rapidly changing global environment.
His comments come after a period of significant political change in the UK, including his departure from both the premiership and Labour leadership.
Starmer became prime minister after Labour’s victory in the 2024 general election. His decision to subsequently leave Parliament marks another major transition in his political career.
By-election likely in London constituency
With Starmer stepping down as MP, a by-election will be held in Holborn and St Pancras.
The contest is expected to attract attention because of the constituency’s political significance and Starmer’s long association with the seat.
The timing of the by-election will be determined under UK electoral rules following the formal vacancy.
Starmer’s decision means the former prime minister will no longer have a seat in the House of Commons, while the new MP for Holborn and St Pancras will take over representation of the constituency.
For Starmer, the move marks a shift away from frontline parliamentary politics as he prepares to concentrate on international affairs and areas including defence, security, trade and technology.
