Keir Starmer, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has announced his decision to step down as the Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras after representing the constituency for 11 years.
Starmer, who resigned as prime minister in June, said on Tuesday that he reached the decision after reflecting on his future.
He said he intends to focus on international affairs, particularly defence, security, trade and technology, as well as continue his advocacy against violence towards women and girls.
“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 said.
He added that tackling violence against women and girls remains an issue he is deeply committed to.
Starmer’s announcement came shortly before Andy Burnham, his successor as prime minister, was expected to make his first statement in the House of Commons in his new role.
The former prime minister had previously indicated that he would remain in Parliament until the next general election, scheduled for 2029.
His decision to leave the Commons ahead of the election will now result in a by-election to determine his successor in the constituency.
It is relatively common for former British prime ministers to remain as MPs after leaving Downing Street.
Rishi Sunak remains the MP for Richmond and Northallerton, while Theresa May continued representing her constituency for five years after leaving office.
Liz Truss remained in Parliament until she lost her seat to Labour at the 2024 general election.
However, former prime ministers Boris Johnson and David Cameron both left the House of Commons relatively soon after stepping down as prime minister.
