Welsh MPs have expressed sadness and conflict following Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's resignation announcement on June 22, 2026. Key allies from Wales paid tribute to Starmer, highlighting his leadership and legacy, while acknowledging the political challenges that led to his decision.
Starmer's Resignation and Welsh Reactions
Nick Smith, MP for Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, a longtime Starmer loyalist, said he was 'saddened' by the resignation. 'Keir is a good man who I believe had the character and integrity to lead Labour. Political leadership is rarely easy, however, and electoral headwinds have ultimately led to his resignation. I believe history will judge his time as Prime Minister well,' Smith wrote.
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens, who has known Starmer since before their election in 2015, described him as a 'man of dignity, duty, and commitment to our country and our party.' She praised his domestic agenda and global leadership, stating: 'It has been an honour to serve him as Secretary of State for Wales. Keir has ensured an enduring legacy through his support to end Tory austerity in Wales, the biggest financial settlement for Welsh Government in the history of devolution, securing the future of Welsh steelmaking, new nuclear at Wylfa, a generational commitment to making our Welsh railways fit for the future, and positioning Wales as a leader in green energy.'
Impact on Labour Leadership
Chris Elmore, a former parliamentary under-secretary in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office under Starmer, noted that without Starmer, Labour would not be in power. 'From our worst defeat in decades to one of the biggest majorities in our movement's history in the space of five years, one cannot understate the importance of his leadership in the aftermath of 2019,' Elmore said. He added that Starmer's government delivered lasting change and restored the UK's faith on the world stage.
Alex Barros-Curtis, MP for Cardiff West and former executive director of legal affairs for Starmer, said he felt 'conflicted' about the resignation. 'Today, I feel incredibly conflicted about the announcement made by Keir Starmer. Conflicted because I will always remain hopeful about a Labour Government and what it can deliver for the country and conflicted also because I am incredibly sad that Keir has announced his resignation,' he wrote. Barros-Curtis emphasised Starmer's role in eradicating antisemitism from the party and leading Labour to a stunning election win in 2024.
Calls for Unity and Continued Work
Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi, who had called for Starmer to quit, acknowledged his 'devotion and dignity' but stressed the need to focus on delivering tangible change. Mid and South Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell thanked Starmer for his service, saying he made Britain 'fairer, safer, and more prosperous over the past two years.'
The resignation triggers leadership changes in both UK and Welsh Labour, with MPs urging unity to continue the government's work. Barros-Curtis concluded: 'The work to deliver our manifesto continues. This Labour Government will get on with the job started by Keir Starmer.'
