Labour MP for East Thanet, Polly Billington, has paid tribute to former Prime Minister Keir Starmer following his resignation, while confirming her support for Andy Burnham in the race to become Labour's next leader and Prime Minister.
In a statement issued following Starmer's announcement, Billington said she welcomed what she described as a difficult decision and praised the former Prime Minister's record both as Labour leader and head of government.
“I welcome the difficult decision Keir Starmer has taken today to step down. In doing so, he has once again demonstrated his commitment to putting the best interests of our country first.”
Polly Billington MP
The East Thanet MP highlighted what she described as Starmer's achievements in rebuilding Labour after its 2019 general election defeat and restoring the party's credibility as a party of government. She also pointed to progress made in government, including reducing NHS waiting lists, bringing rail services back into public ownership, strengthening national security and delivering greater economic stability.
However, Billington acknowledged that recent local and devolved election results had exposed voter frustration and dissatisfaction with the pace of change.
“But there is no escaping the message voters sent at the recent local and devolved elections. Too many people do not feel they are experiencing the change Labour promised at the last general election.”
Polly Billington MP
She argued that Labour must be "bolder" in delivering change and more strongly champion the values of decency, tolerance and fairness.
Billington also became one of the latest Labour MPs to publicly back Andy Burnham's leadership bid. Referring to the recent campaign in Makerfield, she said she had witnessed firsthand the appeal of Burnham's message and record in office.
“During the recent campaign in Makerfield, I saw firsthand how Andy Burnham's message of hope, combined with his proven record of delivering for Greater Manchester, won support from people of all backgrounds.”
Polly Billington MP
“At a time of growing division, we need a leader who can bring our communities together.”
Polly Billington MP
She added that she believed Burnham was best placed to deliver for communities that have felt overlooked by Westminster.
The intervention comes as Labour's leadership contest gathers pace following Starmer's resignation, with MPs, trade unions and party members beginning to line up behind potential candidates.
Billington was elected as MP for East Thanet at the last general election, overturning a Conservative majority of more than 10,000 votes. Since entering Parliament, she has served as co-chair of the Coastal Communities group of MPs and sits on the Energy Security and Net Zero Select Committee.
Further endorsements and candidate announcements are expected in the coming days as the contest to succeed Starmer intensifies.
