Keir Starmer on Monday announced his resignation as UK prime minister and Labour Party leader amid mounting pressure following poor results in last month's local elections.
"I will resign as leader of the Labour Party. I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision," Starmer announced in a statement outside 10 Downing Street, his official residence.
He noted that his resignation came in response to his party's question whether he is "best placed" to lead them into the next general election.
"I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace," he said.
Starmer noted that he will ask the National Executive Committee of his party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on July 9 and completed by the summer recess.
"In the case of a contest, this will ensure a new leader is in place before parliament returns in September. I will remain in post as prime minister until the contest is complete, and I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power," he added.
Here's what happens next:
HOW DOES A LEADERSHIP CONTEST WORK?
Any candidate wishing to replace Starmer would need to secure the support of 20% of Labour members of parliament. With Labour currently holding 403 seats, that equates to 81 lawmakers, including the challenger.
Candidates also must hit thresholds for support from grassroots Labour Party organisations, and from affiliated organisations such as trade unions.
WHO GETS TO DECIDE THE WINNER?
If more than one candidate qualifies, the winner is decided by a ballot of all Labour Party members and affiliates. The winner then becomes prime minister.
HOW LONG WOULD IT TAKE?
Though the timeline is officially decided by the party's governing body, Starmer said nominations would open on July 9 and close before parliament goes into recess, which is scheduled for July 16.
He said if there were to be a contest, it should be completed by the time parliament returns, which is scheduled for September 1.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE'S ONLY ONE CANDIDATE?
If only one candidate meets the threshold for support, there is no vote: the candidate is elected unopposed as Labour leader and becomes prime minister.
