'A man of integrity': Yorkshire politicians react to Sir Keir Starmer's resignation

In a speech in front of Downing Street this morning, Sir Keir said his party had asked “whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election”. He continued: “I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.

“Every decision I have taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party.”

The Prime Minister appeared emotional when speaking about his wife Victoria and their children, saying he will spend more time on "the most important job".

Sir Keir’s speech has been lauded by Yorkshire politicians, with West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin saying: “Keir Starmer is one of only four Labour leaders to have led our party to a general election victory.

“He is a man of integrity who has dedicated his life to public service. He can leave No10 with his head high about what he has achieved and the change he has delivered.

“A true believer in devolution, he recognised and empowered us as mayors to deliver for our regions and the people we represent.”

Sir Keir handed down an array of extra powers to mayors, and granted funding to support the West Yorkshire mass transit network and Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

He also announced plans for Northern Powerhouse Rail after years of delay. South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard was one of a number of Labour figures who called for Sir Keir to go.

However, on his resignation, Mr Coppard said: “I have been critical of the Prime Minister, and I think it’s right he has now set out a timetable for his departure.

“But even his harshest critic must recognise the dignity of his statement today and his notable achievements, first as Leader of the Labour Party and for the last two years as Prime Minister.

“As a Jewish person I am particularly grateful to him for his work to tackle antisemitism within the Labour Party, and as South Yorkshire’s Mayor, for his work to move the devolution agenda forward significantly. This government have done more than any to give power and money to places outside London.

“Keir’s personal support for our plans to develop the advanced manufacturing sector here, build the South Yorkshire People’s Network and reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport has been notable.”

York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith also praised Sir Keir’s speech, saying it showed he is “thoughtful, patriotic and committed to public service”.

“He came into office determined to put country before party and I believe today’s decision reflects that same sense of duty,” he said.

“While none of us wanted to see this moment after just two years in government, I respect the decision he has made.

“I know Keir to be a good man who has always done what he believes is in the country’s best interests. He transformed the Labour Party and made it electable again.

“We face an ever-growing threat from right-wing populism, which has the potential to do great and lasting harm to communities across our county and the country.

“This calls for different leadership with a vision for Brtiain that people can get behind and believe in.”

Ed Miliband, a supporter of Andy Burnham and one of the Cabinet ministers who told Sir Keir he should consider resigning, also praised the Prime Minister for his “integrity”.

The Doncaster North MP said: “Keir Starmer can be immensely proud of his achievements in bringing Labour back to power and leading two years in Government to make Britain a fairer, stronger country.

“Today’s statement showed the great dignity and integrity that is the mark of the man.

“Keir has made an enormous contribution to public service throughout his career, and we all owe him a debt of gratitude.

“The Labour Party was elected to change Britain, and we must now redouble our efforts to deliver the bold and credible change that the British people deserve.”