LICHFIELD'S MP has paid tribute to Sir Keir Starmer for leading the country with "seriousness and integrity" after the Prime Minister confirmed his resignation.
The announcement came this morning after speculation that Andy Burnham – recently elected to the Makerfield constituency following a by-election – was in line to replace him.
The Prime Minister revealed his resignation today (22nd June), saying that he accepted with "good grace" that he no longer had the support of the Labour party.
Lichfield MP Dave Robertson said that while there had been "mistakes" during Sir Keir's time in office it should be acknowledged that "important changes" had been made.
He said:
"In almost two years since the general election, we have seen real progress, including NHS waiting lists falling, interest rates cut, new school nurseries opening and support put in place for industries like ceramics that matter to our area.
"These are important changes – and they are making a difference.
"But we also need to be clear where things have not been right. There have been mistakes, and it is right that they are acknowledged and addressed.
"The Prime Minister has reflected on that over the weekend and today’s announcement brings the speculation of the past few weeks to an end."
Mr Robertson said he had seen first-hand the outgoing Prime Minister's "commitment" to key issues.
He added:
"I want to thank Keir not just for what he has done, but for how he has done it. He has led the Labour party with seriousness and integrity, rebuilding it from the position it was in after 2019 into a party capable of governing.
"That has taken resilience, discipline and a clear sense of duty.
"I have also seen directly his commitment to survivors of sexual abuse and trafficking. Last month, I was with him when he became the first sitting Prime Minister to meet a group of survivors in Downing Street — making sure their voices are heard at the centre of government. That matters, and it says a lot about the kind of leadership he has brought.
"The country's attention will now turn to what comes next – and I will play my part in these conversations. But nothing will distract me. I will keep working for Lichfield, Burntwood and the villages, and making sure the Government delivers for working people across the United Kingdom."
