David Smith, MP for North Northumberland, has reacted to Sir Keir Starmer announcing that he will resign as Prime Minister less than two years after coming to power.

In a statement outside 10 Downing Street, Sir Keir said his party had asked “whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election”.

He added: “I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question, and I accept that answer with good grace.”

Labour is now set to hold a contest to choose his successor.

Mr Smith said: “I’m grateful that the Prime Minister has set out a timetable for his departure.

"He has acted with dignity and I support his decision.”

He added: “I hope that we now have a proper leadership contest that focuses on ideas and vision, and is not just about personalities.

“My constituents need a Labour Government with the vision and clarity to help renew their communities, and I’ll support anyone who can provide this.”

Chairman of Northumberland Conservatives, Guy Renner-Thompson, said: “Sir Kier will not be missed by many in Northumberland.

“His Government cancelled the dualling of the A1, introduced the hated family farm tax which led to protests in Morpeth and Newcastle, took the winter fuel allowance from our pensioners, has hiked taxes on pubs and small businesses and gave our council a rubbish funding settlement.

“Andy Burnham looks set to replace him as Prime Minister. Nothing will change. Just more taxes and more welfare spending.

“We would welcome a General Election to challenge our Labour MPs here in Northumberland who have failed to stand up for the county down in Westminster.”