London, June 22 (Petra) - British Prime Minister and Labour Party leader Keir Starmer announced his resignation from both positions on Monday.

He said he was stepping down under increasing scrutiny from Labour lawmakers and senior cabinet ministers in the wake of heavy losses in local elections held in May. The pressure intensified after former Manchester mayor Andy Burnham won a parliamentary by-election last week.

Starmer confirmed that he would remain in office until the Labour Party elects a new leader. Polls are expected to be held in July and the winner is set to become both party leader and premier.

Starmer revealed that he had informed King Charles III of his decision, and said he intends to devote more time to his family after leaving office.

The announcement is expected to trigger a period of intense political activity within the Labour Party as members move to select a new leader.

//Petra// HA