**Title: British Cypriot MP ‘Grateful’ for Starmer Ahead of Resignation**
British Cypriot MP Nesil Caliskan has expressed her gratitude towards outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who is set to resign on Monday, paving the way for former Manchester mayor Andy Burnham to take over leadership of the Labour Party. Caliskan, a member of the ruling Labour Party, emphasized the significance of this transition, stating that it will “mark the next chapter, with a new Labour prime minister working tirelessly to deliver for the people of our country.”
In her remarks, Caliskan reflected on Starmer's leadership, asserting that he will leave office having improved the country over the past two years. She recalled her feelings of hope when Starmer became leader of the Labour Party during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that she was isolating while fulfilling her duties as a council leader. “I remember turning to my husband and saying, ‘I feel hopeful’,” she shared.
Caliskan highlighted her journey within the Labour Party, which she joined at the age of 14. She noted her election to the party’s national executive committee and subsequent rise to becoming an MP, culminating in her recent appointment as the parliamentary undersecretary of state for devolution, faith, and communities. “I am so proud to be able to say, ‘I was part of it’, in a small way,” she stated.
Expressing her appreciation for Starmer's leadership, Caliskan remarked, “Most of all, I am grateful to Keir for his leadership, which saved the Labour Party and got us into power so that those who desperately needed a Labour government have benefited, and will continue to benefit.”
Andy Burnham, who has been elected as the new leader of the Labour Party, praised Starmer’s contributions, stating that under his leadership, the party transformed from experiencing its worst defeat to achieving significant victories. Burnham acknowledged that Starmer had repositioned Labour to effect positive change in people's lives.
However, Burnham also emphasized the need for a new political approach, recognizing public frustration with traditional politics. He remarked, “The country is crying out for it. We might enjoy the point scoring against others. The public don’t.” He criticized the political landscape, suggesting that the focus on blame detracts from addressing the pressing issues facing citizens, particularly as living standards decline.
Reflecting on historical political decisions, Burnham lamented the centralization of political power and the privatization of economic power that occurred during the 1980s under Conservative Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. He argued that these decisions left many vulnerable to rising costs and concentrated wealth and power among a select few.
Looking ahead, Burnham pledged to implement significant changes in the political landscape, stating that his government aims to create a more affordable life for all citizens and uplift communities across the nation. He expressed a vision for a transformative period in UK politics, promising to address the needs of the public and restore faith in political leadership.
As the handover approaches, both Caliskan and Burnham reflect a shared commitment to the Labour Party's mission and the challenges that lie ahead. The transition marks a pivotal moment for the party and its supporters, with hopes for renewed focus on the issues that matter most to the British public.