The whole country will be utterly shocked by the awful news about the circumstances of Ann Widdecombe’s death.
Today we come together across the political divide and I pay tribute to Ann’s dedication during her many years of public service.
My thoughts and deepest condolences are with Ann’s family and friends.
PSA for those staying up into the small hours for England (as I write Playbook) ... kick off delayed an hour
Both the current PM Keir Starmer and his soon-to-be successor Andy Burnham I'm told are staying up to watch at home with their families
🚨Westminster VI with Andy Burnham as Labour leader🚨
LAB: 27% (+5)
RFM: 26% (-1)
CON: 19% (-2)
GRN: 11% (-2)
LDM: 11% (-)
SNP: 2% (-)
Changes vs the same question with Starmer as leader. Fieldwork 23rd and 24th June.
Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication during such a challenging period.
His decision marks the beginning of a transition and it is important that this process is conducted in an orderly and responsible way. I will put myself forward as part of this process.
The country expects stability, seriousness and a continued focus on the issues that matter most and that is what it will get.
As we move forward, our priority must be to work together to get the country back to where we all want it to be. People want to see progress on economic growth, cost of living, public services, housing and opportunities for the next generation. Political change should never distract from the responsibility to improve people's lives.
The Labour movement has always been at its strongest when it looks forward with confidence and purpose. This is what we will do from here and we will make sure this transition is a positive process of renewal for our party and our country.
Keir Starmer is expected to announce on Monday that he will step down as prime minister, after overwhelming pressure from Labour MPs to make way for Andy Burnham to become Labour leader 👇
https://t.co/jIJrqy0JXV