The UK is on the cusp of a political first, following the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister and Labour leader.
In a statement outside 10 Downing Street, Sir Keir said his party had asked “whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election”.
He said: “I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.”
Defending his record, he pledged to give his successor “my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago”.
With a wavering voice, he added: “When I leave the biggest job in the country, I shall spend more time on the most important job, being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife, Vic, who has been a rock by my side through good times and bad, and being the best dad I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and joy.”
The looming appointment of a sixth prime minister in just 10 years will set a modern record for turnover in Number 10.
This rapid succession marks a dramatic change from the previous 40 years, during which only six leaders served as prime minister.
The recent cycle began with Theresa May in 2016, followed by Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, and Sir Keir Starmer.
A successor to Sir Keir is expected to take office by September, triggering the record.
Recent decades have typically seen more stability.
Between 1976 and 2016, only six people held the UK’s top political job, including Jim Callaghan, Margaret Thatcher, John Major, Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and David Cameron.
Instances of high turnover have been rare in modern history.
There were five prime ministers between 1954 and 1964, and again between 1914 and 1924.
A similar rate of change has not been seen since the 19th century, during a period before the UK became a full parliamentary democracy.
Another historic milestone is also approaching.
Once the new prime minister takes office, the UK will have nine living former prime ministers, the most ever at one time.
That group will include Sir John Major, Sir Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, Lord Cameron, Baroness May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, and Sir Keir Starmer.
They are expected to gather publicly for the Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph in central London this November.
This rapid change in leadership has fuelled debate about political stability, party unity, and the challenges of governing during periods of upheaval and division.
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