Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer Steps Down
British newspapers are extensively covering the resignation of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, with many front pages focusing on his emotional departure and the anticipated leadership transition. Following months of growing discontent among Labour MPs and cabinet ministers, Sir Keir delivered a speech outside No. 10 Downing Street, thanking his wife and expressing his desire to focus on his family.
The Metro's headline, "Keir's tears... Andy's crown," encapsulates the sentiment, while The Guardian features Sir Keir with the caption, "Starmer bows out... as Burnham swoops in." The Daily Telegraph described his resignation speech as "emotional," noting he accepted calls to step down "with 'good grace'."
The Daily Mirror reflected on Sir Keir's tenure, acknowledging him as a "decent man" who "tried his very best in an almost impossible job," crediting him with lifting children out of poverty and protecting workers, while also noting "glaring failures" in a divided world.
Andy Burnham: The 'King of the North' Expected to Lead
Much of the press attention has shifted to Andy Burnham, who is widely expected to become the next Labour leader and Prime Minister. The Daily Mail, referring to him as a "messiah without a mandate" based on a reader poll, suggests a swift "coronation." Burnham, recently elected as MP for Makerfield, was pictured by the i Paper in a selfie with 200 Labour MPs, under the headline "prime minister in three weeks: Burnham arrives for coronation."
Reports indicate that former Health Secretary Wes Streeting has withdrawn his own leadership bid after discussions with Burnham, potentially paving the way for an unchallenged leadership contest. The Financial Times highlights that nominations for the Labour leadership close on 16 July, and without other candidates, Burnham's ascent would be a "coronation."
The Times reports that Burnham plans to deliver a speech next week outlining his economic vision, committing to expanding the economy and adhering to Labour's fiscal rules. While Streeting has stepped aside, there is speculation that Darren Jones, chief secretary to the prime minister, might consider standing to trigger a formal contest, even without a strong chance of winning.
The Sun's headline, "He think it's all over," playfully suggests Burnham could become Prime Minister just before the World Cup final. The Independent's "Regime change" headline, accompanied by a composite image of Sir Keir and Burnham, visually represents the power transfer, with a Labour minister calling for a general election.
The Daily Star humorously dubs Burnham "King of the North and South" over his "Hollywood-style selfie."
Other News: Heatwave and Brexit Anniversary
Amidst the political news, a scorching heatwave sweeping across the UK also garnered attention. Headlines reported "Schools closed amid heatwave power alert," with warnings of potential blackouts due to damaged power lines from wildfires.
Notably, the Daily Express was the only paper to lead with the 10-year anniversary of the UK's referendum to leave the European Union, launching a campaign for politicians to deliver a "proper Brexit" and fulfill "the will of the people."
Source: The Papers: 'Keir's tears... Andy's crown' and 'Messiah without a mandate'