South East Residents React As Keir Starmer Announces Departure

Residents and business owners across the South East have been reacting after Sir Keir Starmer announced he will step down as Prime Minister once a successor is chosen.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions, with some describing the move as inevitable, while others believe he deserved more time in office.

Peter Austin, from Eastbourne, said he felt the decision was ultimately in the country's best interests.

"I don't think he's a bad bloke, but he wasn't the greatest Prime Minister," he said.

Another resident, Lesley, said she was disappointed to see him go but understood why the decision had been made.

"I think it's a shame. Given more time, I think he could have achieved more, but I also think it was inevitable," she said.

Attention is now turning to who could replace Sir Keir, with speculation mounting over Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham's future ambitions.

Business owner Kevin Dawson said his focus is less on personalities and more on the economic challenges facing local firms.

"I'm more concerned about whether the next Prime Minister will reduce taxes and address the fuel crisis," he said.

"We are suffering, and people are more concerned about what is left in their bank account."

Sir Keir has said the process to choose Labour's next leader will begin in July, with a replacement expected to be in place before Parliament returns in September.