Starmer to step down as British PM

Share to Google Classroom

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that he will step down after facing pressure from within the Labour Party. He said he would remain as caretaker prime minister until a new Labour leader is chosen. Starmer made the announcement outside 10 Downing Street after weeks of concern about his leadership. His decision comes less than two years after Labour won a large election victory in July 2024.

Starmer’s popularity and Labour’s support have fallen since he became prime minister. Many Labour lawmakers have been worried about the government’s struggles with the economy, public services and the cost of living. His departure was also linked to the political return of Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester. Burnham won a special election and was expected to challenge Starmer for the Labour leadership.

Starmer is the latest in a series of British prime ministers to leave office earlier than planned. His resignation comes just before the 10th anniversary of Britain’s vote to leave the European Union. While he faced problems at home, Starmer was praised by some people for his work with other countries, including support for Ukraine. Labour will now choose a new leader to try to rebuild support for the government.

How did this story make you feel?

SMART Prep | Quick Question 210581

On Saturday morning, a group of students helped with a harbour clean-up in Wellington. They worked along the shoreline, picking up plastic bottles, food wrappers, and pieces of fishing line. The organiser said the students were making a noticeable difference because the beach looked much tidier by midday. One student described the work as tiring, but rewarding, because it helped protect birds and marine life. At the end of the morning, the volunteers stood together for a photo, proud of the contribution they had made to their community.

In the passage, what does the word “noticeable” most nearly mean?

  

Did You Know?

What big decision did British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announce?
Keir Starmer announced he will step down as Prime Minister!

Vocabulary

Click on the words in the article. See if you can find them all.
  • caretaker A person who temporarily takes care of something. The caretaker looked after the school while it was closed.
  • leadership The action of leading a group or organization. Good leadership helps teams work better together.
  • support To help or back someone or something. Friends support each other during tough times.
  • Thinking Question

    How do you think a new leader can help the country?

    Popular this week

    Premium
    2
    Premium
    2
    1
    November 30, 2025
    Premium
    2