UK PM Keir Starmer rejects calls to resign, says will focus on governance despite political turmoil

London (Web Desk/ Agencies): British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Tuesday brushed aside increasing demands for his resignation, saying his government would remain focused on running the country despite days of political turmoil following a crushing election setback for the Labour Party.

During a cabinet meeting, Starmer acknowledged the difficult political atmosphere but insisted that his priority was to continue governing rather than become distracted by internal party pressure.

According to Downing Street, he warned ministers that the uncertainty of the past two days had created instability that could carry economic consequences for both the country and ordinary households.

Although Starmer admitted responsibility for Labour’s disappointing electoral performance, he pointed out that no formal attempt had been made to initiate a leadership challenge against him.

Financial markets reacted cautiously to his remarks, with British government bonds recovering slightly after earlier losses, though they still remained down overall during the day’s trading.

However, Starmer’s determination to stay in office contrasts sharply with the mood among many Labour members. On Tuesday, a junior minister stepped down, while several ministerial aides also quit their posts.

At the same time, more than 80 Labour MPs publicly urged the prime minister to announce a timeline for his exit so the party could organise a smooth leadership transition.

A day earlier, Starmer had tried to reinforce his authority by promising quicker and more decisive action to address Britain’s ongoing challenges.

He also argued that the public would not forgive Labour if the party descended into another internal power struggle only two years after winning a commanding parliamentary majority that was expected to restore stability following the prolonged political upheaval triggered by Brexit a decade ago.