Lancaster MP reacts to resignation of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
Lancaster & Wyre MP Cat Smith has thanked Sir Keir Starmer for his service after he resigned as Prime Minister.
Ms Smith released a statement after the PM announced his decision to step down on Monday.
She said: “Following the resignation of Keir Starmer as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party, a leadership contest will now take place in accordance with the party's rules and procedures," said Ms Smith.
"I would like to thank Keir Starmer for his service. The coming weeks will provide an opportunity for the Labour Party to reflect on the future direction of the party and the country.
"As the leadership election process begins, I will continue to focus on representing constituents in Lancaster and Wyre and carrying out my parliamentary responsibilities.
"I look forward to hearing from colleagues who may wish to put their names forward."
Nominations are expected to open on July 9 to find a new leader of the Labour Party, who would become the next Prime Minister.
Andy Burnham, who was sworn in as MP of Makerfield yesterday after winning a by-election last week, is the favourite.
On Monday, Morecambe & Lunesdale MP Lizzi Collinge said: “I think the Prime Minister has made the right decision, and done so with grace.
“I will always be grateful for everything he has done for the party and for the country."
Speaking outside 10 Downing Street on Monday, Starmer described becoming PM as the “proudest moment” of his life.
But he said his party was asking whether he is best placed to lead it into the next election, and that he had “heard the answer” and “accepts that answer with good grace”.