King Charles III formally accepted Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s resignation on Monday, Buckingham Palace confirmed. Labour leader Andy Burnham is set to become Britain’s new prime minister. The leadership change marks another major transition in UK politics.
Buckingham Palace said Starmer met the King and tendered his resignation as prime minister and First Lord of the Treasury. According to the palace, King Charles was “graciously pleased to accept” the resignation. Lady Starmer also attended the royal audience.
Read more: Starmer announces resignation as UK prime minister
Following Starmer’s departure, the King is expected to invite Burnham to form a new government. Burnham, 56, will become Britain’s seventh prime minister in a decade. He has pledged to deliver more stable and responsible politics.
Burnham said his government would focus on the cost-of-living crisis and improving public services. Moreover, he pledged to “rewire” Britain’s political system to better address public concerns. His first speech will outline the new administration’s priorities.
The incoming prime minister also faces immediate decisions on cabinet appointments and economic policy. Therefore, attention will focus on taxation, public spending, energy policy, and struggling utility companies. Analysts expect his finance minister selection to receive close scrutiny.
Read more: Keir Starmer resigns as UK prime minister after turbulent two-year term
Meanwhile, Burnham has urged Labour lawmakers to ignore speculation surrounding his cabinet choices. Officials said he has not finalized key appointments. His allies also suggested stronger government oversight of underperforming utility firms, including Thames Water.
The change in leadership comes as Britain faces economic challenges and growing political pressure. Burnham has promised to improve living standards and restore confidence in government. Markets and political observers will closely watch his first policy decisions.