Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has reacted to the resignation of Keir Starmer as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, attributing it to his administration’s policies and broader decisions within the Labour Party.
In a statement posted on X shortly after the announcement on Monday, Badenoch criticised a series of policy choices under Starmer, including taxation, welfare reforms, defence spending, energy policy and key political appointments.
She argued that the challenges facing Britain were not only a result of Starmer’s leadership but were also rooted in the ideological direction of the Labour Party.
According to her, Labour lawmakers favour higher taxes and expanded welfare spending, which she said has contributed to the country’s difficulties.
Badenoch maintained that the UK remains governable and called for a shift in political direction, insisting that the Conservative Party is necessary to restore economic growth and productivity.
She tweeted, “Hiking national insurance. The Family Farm Tax. Giving up on real welfare reform. Not funding our defence. Not drilling our own oil and gas. Appointing Peter Mandelson…then lying about what had happened.
“Britain is not ungovernable. Keir Starmer is a terrible Prime Minister. But the problem isn’t just Starmer.
“Labour MPs only want higher taxes to hand out more benefits, as the Welfare Secretary has pointed out. These are Labour’s choices and their values, regardless of who is running the party.
“We need to get Britain working again. We need the @Conservatives.”
Her comments followed Starmer’s resignation announcement less than two years into his tenure, which he said was driven by political pressure and policy challenges.
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on Monday, Starmer confirmed he would step down as Labour Party leader and said preparations would begin in July to choose his successor, with a transition expected to conclude by September.
He added that he would remain Prime Minister until a new leader is appointed and also expressed a desire to spend more time with his family after leaving office.
Starmer paid tribute to his wife, Vic, for her support during his time in office and acknowledged the personal toll of leading the government.
He also noted growing internal pressure within the Labour Party and said he accepted the party’s decision regarding his leadership ahead of the next general election.