The BBC has been forced to explain why it broadcast loud, joyous music during Sir Keir Starmer's resignation speech this morning. The official European Union anthem, Beethoven's Ode to Joy, could be heard outside No 10 as the Prime Minister confirmed his plans to step down next month following weeks of pressure.
BBC Presenter Clarifies Musical Background
BBC presenter Jon Kay said: "We should probably just explain to people who are slightly baffled by the musical background, Ode to Joy, Beethoven, [the] EU anthem, effectively, playing in the background. That's a protester playing it on a speaker at the bottom of Downing Street. That's not part of the Downing Street ambience or a media addition."
Chief political correspondent Henry Zeffman added: "It did seem that the Prime Minister in the early stages of his speech, was thrown off a little bit by it, completely understandably, I should say, because it's incredibly loud."
Starmer's Resignation Statement
Sir Keir said his party had asked "whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election" in the statement delivered outside No 10. He said: "I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace."
He also pledged to give his successor "my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago." Growing emotional, he added: "When I leave the biggest job in the country, I shall spend more time on the most important job, being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife, Vic, who has been a rock by my side through good times and bad, and being the best dad I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and joy."
Labour Leadership Contest
Sir Keir's decision to stand down means Labour will now hold a contest to choose his successor, with Andy Burnham seen as the frontrunner. The former Greater Manchester mayor is expected to arrive in Westminster to be sworn in as an MP on Monday afternoon after winning the Makerfield by-election. Former health secretary Wes Streeting is also expected to put himself forward as a candidate.
Sir Keir said he would ask Labour's ruling National Executive Committee (NEC) to set out a timetable that would see a new leader in place by the time Parliament returns from its summer recess on September 1. He said nominations would open on July 9, the day after he is expected to return from a Nato summit in Turkey, and close to the start of the summer recess on July 16.
