Keir Starmer has resigned as prime minster of the United Kingdom and leader of the Labour party.
In a statement this morning, the outgoing prime minster said that “every decision I have taken has been about putting the country first” and that is why he was resigning as leader of the Labour Party.
He explained: “I will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on 9 July and completed by the summer recess.
“In the case of a contest, this will ensure that a new leader is in place before parliament returns in September.”
Starmer took on the role in 2024. His chancellor Rachel Reeves has frequently been criticised for her approach and level of support provided to the UK hospitality sector.
At the start of June, hospitality businesses, teams and organisations were all urged to sign a new petition calling for Government to cut hospitality VAT to 10%, in line with Europe.
Chef Tom Kerridge is spearheading #VATsTheProblem, a sector-wide campaign uniting hospitality businesses and teams, high-profile chefs, and sector trade bodies and organisations.
The campaign’s single ask was for the Government to cut hospitality VAT to 10%, in line with Europe, and urged the entire sector to back its call by signing a new petition, with the aim to get a million signatures.
It is already supported by major hospitality groups, including UKHospitality, the British Beer and Pub Association, the British Institute of Innkeeping and CODE Hospitality.
But speaking today on his departure Starmer added: “I know the question being asked now is not who was best placed to change the Labour Party…the question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead it into a general election.
“I have heard the answer from my parliamentary party to that question and I accept that answer with good grace.
“I will also give my successor my full and unequivocal support, knowing they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago.”
Check back later for industry reaction on today’s announcement.
Picture credit: Keir Starmer ©House of Commons
