Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has revealed the "intensely personal" decision to end his political career, made alongside his family. In his first interview since resigning, Starmer also issued a direct warning to his likely successor, Andy Burnham, emphasizing that foreign affairs will demand as much attention as domestic issues.

Starmer, who is marking his second anniversary as Prime Minister this weekend, has faced persistent criticism for spending significant time on the international stage, earning him the moniker "never here Keir." He strongly refuted the idea that a leader could effectively separate global responsibilities from national concerns, asserting that the two are intrinsically linked.

During the interview, Starmer stated he believed he had "saved the Labour Party" and served as a successful prime minister. He expressed confidence in Andy Burnham, his successor, and indicated he would refrain from interfering, saying he liked Burnham and they had always gotten along. However, he cautioned that Burnham would face the same volatile global landscape that has characterized his own premiership.

The former Prime Minister described the decision to step down as "really, really tough." He explained that after initially vowing to continue, he ultimately changed his mind and resigned within three days of Andy Burnham's victory in the Makerfield by-election. The final decision was made over a weekend spent with his wife, Victoria, and their teenage children at Chequers.

"Grappling with what was the best thing to do for me, for the country, for the government," Starmer recounted. While extensive discussions were held with colleagues, advisors, and trade unions, he emphasized that for him, the ultimate choice became deeply personal. He described spending two days at Chequers with his wife and children, a period that solidified his final decision.

Starmer elaborated on the nature of his resignation, stating, "Taking the decision that your political career is over, it is an intensely personal matter, or at least it was for me." This introspection highlights the profound impact of his tenure and the weight of his departure from Number 10.

He reiterated that the world is currently more dangerous and volatile than it has been for much of his lifetime, a reality that is unlikely to change. Consequently, he warned that domestic challenges would not diminish, and any successor would inevitably confront the same global conflicts and crises.

Supporters of Andy Burnham within Parliament have expressed hopes that he will be able to dedicate more focus to domestic priorities such as the cost of living and public services. However, Starmer's remarks suggest that such a singular focus may prove difficult, if not impossible, given the prevailing international climate.