Andy Burnham on course to be British PM in weeks after Keir Starmer quits

Key Points:

• Andy Burnham is poised to become the next UK prime minister after Keir Starmer resigned following Burnham's decisive by-election victory, which enabled him to challenge for the Labour leadership.
• Burnham has received the endorsement of Wes Streeting, his main expected rival, making a full leadership contest unlikely and accelerating Burnham's potential start date to mid-July.
• Starmer, who faced poor poll ratings and internal party pressure, announced his resignation and plans for a leadership contest to conclude by September, but will remain in office temporarily to ensure a smooth transition.
• Starmer highlighted his achievements in opposition and government, including restoring party trust and economic growth, but acknowledged that his party no longer saw him as the best leader for the next general election.
• The Labour Party is expected to approve the leadership contest timetable this week, with Burnham's rise marking a significant shift in UK politics after Labour's recent struggles under Starmer's premiership.