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Starmer Resigns; Badenoch Demands Defence Commitment, Threatens Election

6/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer resigned as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on June 22, 2026.
Kemi Badenoch warned that Labour’s welfare focus could jeopardise Britain’s national security.
She said Starmer’s farewell tour distracted from urgent defence decisions.
Badenoch urged Labour leader Andy Burnham to explain funding for the Defence Investment Plan.
She offered Burnham 170 votes if he commits to defence over welfare cuts and warned she would call an election.

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Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer resigned as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on June 22, 2026.
Kemi Badenoch warned that Labour’s welfare focus could jeopardise Britain’s national security.
She said Starmer’s farewell tour distracted from urgent defence decisions.
Badenoch urged Labour leader Andy Burnham to explain funding for the Defence Investment Plan.
She offered Burnham 170 votes if he commits to defence over welfare cuts and warned she would call an election.