Labour's General Secretary, Hollie Ridley, has paid tribute to former Prime Minister Keir Starmer following his resignation, praising his role in rebuilding the party and returning Labour to government after years in opposition.
In a message sent to Labour members, Ridley described Starmer's leadership as instrumental in restoring the party's credibility and delivering a Labour government capable of implementing change for working people.
She argued that Labour's achievements in government, including efforts to reduce NHS waiting lists, strengthen workers' rights and tackle child poverty, had only been made possible because of the work undertaken to rebuild the party following its defeat at the 2019 general election.
“Labour in government matters because it puts power in the service of working people.”
Hollie Ridley
“It means decisions being made every day to build a stronger, fairer Britain.”
Hollie Ridley
The General Secretary highlighted the scale of the challenge Starmer inherited when he became Labour leader, describing a party that had suffered one of the worst electoral defeats in its history and faced a difficult route back to power.
“When Keir became leader, Labour had suffered one of the worst election defeats in our history. Trust had been lost, our path back to government looked steep, and few believed a Labour majority was within reach.”
Hollie Ridley
Ridley credited Starmer with rebuilding public confidence in Labour and leading the party to a landslide election victory.
“Through his leadership, Labour rebuilt. We changed our party, won back the confidence of the British people, and secured a landslide victory.”
Hollie Ridley
The statement comes as Labour begins the process of selecting a new leader following Starmer's departure. While acknowledging the leadership transition, Ridley stressed that the party's core values and mission would remain unchanged.
“Labour remains in government and focused on delivering for working people — committed to our mission of building a stronger, fairer Britain.”
Hollie Ridley
“The leadership of our party will change. Our values, our purpose and our responsibility to the country will not.”
Hollie Ridley
Ridley also emphasised the importance of party members and activists as Labour prepares for future electoral challenges, including contests against Reform UK in areas such as Greater Manchester.
Referring to the role of Labour's grassroots membership, she said:
“When Labour wins, it is always because the strength of our movement comes together to make it happen.”
Hollie Ridley
The intervention is one of a number of tributes from across the Labour movement reflecting on Starmer's legacy as leader and Prime Minister, while also seeking to reassure members that the party remains focused on governing and delivering its programme in office.
With a leadership contest now under way, Labour figures are increasingly calling for unity and continued focus on government priorities as the party prepares for its next chapter.
