‘Left us far safer’: Leeds residents ‘disappointed’ after Keir Starmer resigns - amid Iran War decision praise

Leeds residents have expressed “disappointment” after Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation as Prime Minister, but believe he has left the country “far safer”.

The Labour leader took to a podium in front of 10 Downing Street on Monday (June 22) morning to announce he would be stepping down. It comes following the disappointing local election results in May and the return of the now former Greater Manchester mayor, Andy Burnham, to Westminster.

Nominations to replace Sir Keir will open in July with Labour MPs set to have a huge say in who will take over as leader of not only the party but also the country. His exit means that the UK is also set for its seventh different Prime Minister in just ten years.

Following the announcement that the PM would be standing down, we asked the Yorkshire Evening Post’s Facebook followers what they made of his decision. As well as asking for a verdict on his legacy, after two years in government.

In one comment, Danielle Bennett wrote: “Has there ever been one single Prime Minister that's not left people disappointed?

“I think he's really disappointed a lot of people, myself included. However, I think it takes a brave kind of person to try to take on that job!”

Lis Marsden added: “He should not have been hounded by the press. He was doing a good job in my opinion. It seems to me we need a revolving door on no 10 Downing St.

“We cannot keep replacing the PMs like this, it’s getting ridiculous especially as we have to continue to pay them a salary so currently we are paying for 9 ex PMs. No wonder the country is skint.”

Offering a glowing tribute, Eamonn Mcgee said: “I did vote Labour and I was very satisfied with the way Keir Starmer was leading the country. He is a decent, intelligent man who makes difficult decisions with consideration and kindness.”

Praise for Starmer’s handling of international matters, particularly keeping us out of the war in Iran was a common thread among our readers.

Gillian Booth said: “Thank god he was in charge when Trump and Netanyahu tried to start world war 3 and we had a prime minister strong enough to keep us out of it.”

David Goodwin added: “His legacy is that as part of Europe we are far safer against Russia than we have ever been.”

Lesley Boughton said: “I am sorry the labour party turned on him. He quietly brought in loads of positive changes. His problem was his quietness. For some reason we prefer big personalities with no morals.”

Daralyn Wright said: “No, I think they have worked bloody hard to try and turn things around. Don't agree with everything they have done but better than last 14 years.

“He was never going to be popular. It shouldn't be a personality contest but sadly it is. Look at Boris, he got in because he made people laugh.”

On the other end of the spectrum, John Dakin said that Starmer’s legacy would be: “Fooling so many people into believing he had a backbone.”

Sar Eden was also less impressed. Writing: “Same horse, different jockey.”

Judith Hart added: “No, I’m not disappointed. He’s done a lot actually but he’s not good at self publicity, I respect him for not following Trump into a war with Iran.”

Mark Bates said: “Needs to go now, not September.”

On Andy Burnham potentially stepping in as his replacement, our readers were not unanimous.

Julie Blangsted said: “Let’s hope Andy Burnham takes over. He’s done so much for Manchester and I think he’s got the right qualities to lead this country.”

Paul Ronald Amatt offered a different view. He wrote: “I personally would not vote for him, but if he does become the next Prime Minister it will be interesting to see if he is any different to Kier Stammer.

“Andy certainly is more popular. But personally I feel it is Labour's policies I have an issue with so hope he will re-addresses some of those such as the defense budget. Also the election for a new Manchester Mayor will be interesting.”

Ian Reynolds was conflicted and said: “Two minds; one says yes, but the other says no because the policies will not change. A general election would be better, but that will not happen yet.”