Andy Slaughter pays tribute to Keir Starmer – “a decent and honourable man”

Andy Slaughter MP

Sir Keir Starmer “tried his best to rescue the country from economic and social disintegration” says Andy Slaughter MP

Andy Slaughter, MP for Hammersmith & Chiswick, has expressed his sympathy for the Prime Minister, on hearing Sir Keir Starmer has announced his resignation.

“I feel very personally sorry for Keir Starmer who is a decent and honourable man, who tried his best to rescue the country from economic and social disintegration, and who had to contend with unprecedented challenges especially in international affairs”, Andy told The Chiswick Calendar.

“He has many achievements to his credit, but a lot of those challenges remain, so, now he has resigned, in the interests of the country we need to move quickly to replace Keir”.

Sir Keir Starmer speaking outside 10 Downing Street this morning; screen grab from live coverage by BBC News

Prime Minister sets out timeframe for his replacement to be in post before the opening of Parliament in September

The Prime Minister announced his resignation this morning outside 10 Downing Street.

In a short and emotional, but very dignified speech he said:

“The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election.

“I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.

“Every decision I’ve taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party.

“I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision. I will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable, with nominations opening on 9th July and completed by the summer recess.

“In the case of a contest this will ensure a new leader is in place before parliament returns in September”.

Andy Burnham “the best candidate” to replace Keir Starmer

Andy Slaughter was one of the MPs who went to Makerfield to campaign for Andy Burnham to be re-elected to Parliament.

His election with more votes with the rest of the candidates put together has paved the way for him to challenge the Prime Minister for leadership of the party.

“Andy Burnham proved during the Makerfield campaign that he could win the confidence of the electorate and he looks the best candidate to lead the Party and the Government”, said Andy Slaughter.

“I did a few canvases and met the man himself. It was a very positve and enthusiastic campaign.

“I hope there isn’t a contest and if there is it will be one sided and I doubt would run the course”.