Keir Starmer has been accused of hypocrisy after confirming his resignation as Prime Minister while reportedly remaining in office during a Labour leadership contest.
The criticism centres on comments made by Sir Keir during the final days of Boris Johnson’s premiership in 2022, when the then Labour leader argued that Mr Johnson should leave office immediately rather than remain in Downing Street while the Conservative Party selected a new leader.
In a social media post published shortly after Mr Johnson announced his resignation, Sir Keir wrote: “We are stuck with a government that isn’t functioning.
“The Prime Minister needs to go completely – not cling on for a few months.
“Britain needs a fresh start. If the Tory party doesn’t get rid of him, Labour will act in the national interest and bring a vote of no confidence.”
The post has resurfaced following Sir Keir’s own resignation announcement on Monday morning.
While Sir Keir confirmed that he will step down as Prime Minister and Labour leader, reports suggest he could remain in office for a period while Labour chooses his successor. Any leadership contest could potentially continue throughout the summer before a new leader formally takes over.
Critics have argued that this mirrors the situation Sir Keir condemned when Boris Johnson remained in office after announcing his intention to resign in July 2022.
The comparison has quickly gained traction on social media, with opponents pointing to the apparent contrast between Sir Keir’s previous position and Labour’s current approach to managing a transition of power.
Supporters of the Prime Minister have argued that any temporary continuation in office would be intended to ensure stability in government while the leadership process takes place.
Sir Keir announced his resignation in an emotional statement outside Number 10 Downing Street, where he reflected on Labour’s return to power in 2024 and defended his record in office.
The Prime Minister also became emotional as he thanked his wife and children for their support during his years in politics.
Attention will now turn to Labour’s leadership contest and the question of who will succeed Sir Keir both as party leader and Prime Minister.
However, the re-emergence of his 2022 comments about Boris Johnson is likely to ensure that debate over the timing of his own departure continues in the days ahead.
