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Travel calls for 'clear focus on growth' from government following Keir Starmer's resignation

Government
Harry Kemble
22 June 2026

The UK Outbound Travel lobby group has called for the UK's next prime minister to place "a clear focus on growth" after Keir Starmer announced his resignation outside 10 Downing Street on Monday morning (22 June), while Abta has pledged to ensure continuity of its relationships with key government and civil service figures once Starmer's replacement is appointed.

Keir Starmer
Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street / Flickr

Keir Starmer announced his resignation outside 10 Downing Street on 22 June

Starmer confirmed he was stepping down from the role in an emotional address to the nation, paving the way for a new prime minister to be appointed. Former mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham, who triumphed in the Makerfield by-election last week, has long been considered the next prime minister in waiting.

Reacting to Starmer’s decision, Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “Once the new government is in place, we shall continue to engage on the immediate issues that matter to our members.