Keir Starmer to stand down as an MP

Former British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced he will stand down as MP for Holborn and St Pancras, triggering a by-election in the London seat.

In a statement to the Camden New Journal, Starmer called it a "huge honour" to have represented the constituency for 11 years and said he would focus on international affairs.

In the summer Starmer stepped down as prime minister and was replaced by Andy Burnham. At the time he said he would remain an MP until the next general election.

The decision ends weeks of speculation about his political future.