North West Cambridgeshire MP welcomes Prime Minister's decision to quit as 'right for the country'

Mr Carling, who was one of more than 80 MPs who last month called on Sir Keir to stand down after a bout of local election losses, said that a new focus was needed to tackle social and economic challenges faced by the country.

Keir Starmer announced on Monday, June 22 that he was standing down as prime minister nearly two years after taking the Labour Party to general election success in 2024.

Mr Carling, who was 22 years old when he was elected as Labour MP in July 2024 and was the youngest MP in the House of Commons, said: “I would like to pay tribute to Sir Keir Starmer.

"Under his leadership, Labour once again became a credible party of government, leading us to a historic win at the last General Election.

"The Labour government has delivered for my constituents; stabilising the economy, cutting NHS waiting lists, delivering stronger employment rights and improved protections for renters and leaseholders.

He said: “Keir made what I believe was the right decision for the country, as well as for the Labour Party.

"I would like to send him and his family my best wishes for the future.

Mr Carling added: “Looking ahead, our task is clear: bring forward the change we were elected to deliver.

"Drive growth, create opportunities, and ensure that every community, like mine in North West Cambridgeshire, feels the benefits.

He said: “A bold and ambitious vision is required to help address the long-term social and economic challenges our country faces.

"I look forward to working with my Labour colleagues, in supporting our new leader, to deliver that.”

Keir Starmer announced from Downing Street on Monday, June 22 that he was quitting as Labour Party leader, which will trigger a contest to chose a new prime minister.

Labour’s governing body, the National Executive Committee, will draw up a timetable to choose a replacement, with nominations opening on July 9 and ending by the summer recess on July 16.

Sir Keir said he would do everything he can to ensure an "orderly" transition of power.

He was elected leader of the Labour Party in April 2020 and became prime minister on July 5, 2024.

The decision to step down means the UK will have its seventh prime minister since 2016.

It is reported that many MPs are supporting the newly elected MP and former Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, who won the Makerfield by-election on June 18, as the choice for the new Labour Party leader and prime minister.

If selected, Mr Burnham would be the fifth prime minister in 10 years to take up the role without a general election.