SNP MP Laura Bird crosses fingers during oath

Keir Starmer Resigns as Prime Minister, Andy Burnham Poised to Succeed

In a dramatic turn of events, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has resigned after less than two years in office, citing a desire to put the country first. In an emotional speech outside Number 10, Starmer announced he would step down as leader of the Labour Party and promised an orderly handover of power within weeks. He paid tribute to his family, stating he would now focus on being the best husband to his wife, Vic.

Starmer's resignation follows mounting pressure within his own party, triggered by the so-called Mandelson affair and poor local election results. His departure has opened the door for a swift leadership contest, with former Health Secretary Andy Burnham emerging as the clear frontrunner. Burnham, the newly elected Labour MP for Makerfield, has already secured significant backing, including from prominent figures like David Lammy. His arrival in London was likened to a political coronation, with several newspapers dubbing it a "coronation" and drawing comparisons to the biblical messiah.

However, the transition has not been without controversy. Opposition leaders, including Conservative Kemi Badenoch and Reform UK's Nigel Farage, are demanding a general election, arguing that the process of selecting a new prime minister without a public vote devalues democracy. Farage described the situation as reminiscent of a "banana republic." Within the Labour Party, there are also calls for a female candidate, with reports that dozens of MPs are backing Chief Secretary Darren Jones.

Meanwhile, the country faces a severe heatwave, with rare red weather warnings in effect for parts of England and Wales. Temperatures could reach up to 40°C, prompting school closures and travel warnings. Health officials have urged the public to take precautions, especially around open water.

In other news, former DUP leader Sir Geoffrey Donaldson has been found guilty of 18 historical sex offences against two women when they were children, including one count of rape. His wife, Eleanor, was convicted of aiding and abetting his crimes. Additionally, a 36-year-old man has appeared in court charged with five counts of attempted murder with a terrorist connection after a series of attacks in Edinburgh.

As the political landscape shifts, the nation awaits the formal handover of power, with many questioning whether the new leader will address key issues such as Brexit, taxation, and immigration. The coming weeks will be critical in shaping the future direction of the UK.