Outgoing British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has spoken in front of Number 10 Downing Street, announcing his resignation as prime minister.
“I will shortly be seeing His Majesty the King to offer my resignation as prime minister. To the country, I would like to say, first and foremost, I am sorry. I have given this job my all, but you have sent a clear signal that the government of the United Kingdom must change, and yours is the only judgment that matters.”
“I have heard your anger, your disappointment, and I take responsibility for this loss.”
“Following this result, I will step down as party leader, not immediately but once the formal arrangements for selecting my successor are in place.”
“It is important that after 14 years in government, the Conservative Party rebuilds but also that it takes up its crucial role in opposition professionally and effectively.”
Sunak said he had left the country in a better place than when he took office, with inflation “back to target,” mortgage rates falling, and the nation seeing a return to growth.
“We have enhanced our standing in the world, building relations with allies, leading global efforts to support Ukraine, and becoming the home of a new generation of transformative technologies.”
Sunak said the union between the nations of the United Kingdom was now stronger, pointing in particular to achievements in Northern Ireland — the return of devolved government and the .
“I’m proud of those achievements. I believe this country is safer, stronger, and more secure than it was 20 months ago.”
“Whilst he has been my political opponent, Sir Keir Starmer will shortly become our prime minister. In this job, his successes will be all our successes and I wish him and his family well.
“Whatever our disagreements in this campaign, he is a decent public-spirited man, who I respect.”
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