Keir Starmer to stand down as MP

Keir Starmer is to quit as MP for Holborn and St Pancras, saying it is the “right time” for him to leave the Commons. Starmer, who resigned as prime minister in July, told the Camden New Journal he wanted to focus on international affairs and “pass the baton to a successor”. That is an issue that matters to me hugely.

It’s work I started before I became an MP and it’s work I’m keen to continue after I’m an MP. So international affairs on the one hand and continuing my work on violence against women and girls on the other.” The resignation will mean a byelection in the central London seat, which is likely to be targeted by the Greens.