Prime Minister David Cameron to step down after EU referendum result

Prime Minister David Cameron has announced he will step down after Britain voted to leave the European Union this morning.
David Cameron.David Cameron.
David Cameron.

In a speech on the steps of 10 Downing Street, Mr Cameron said: “It has been an honour to be Prime Minister for the last six years in this country. I don’t think it is right for me to be the captain to steer this ship in a new direction.”

Mr Cameron said he expects Britain to have a new Prime Minister by October.

Commenting on the decision, Scott Knowles, Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “The Chamber would like to pay tribute to Prime Minister David Cameron for his service to the country and its economy over the past six years.

“In his own words, ‘the will of the British people is an instruction that must be delivered’ and there now needs to be a clear timetable from government on the UK’s exit from the EU.

“Businesses want answers to their many practical, real-world questions about doing business during the transition period and beyond. Government must also demonstrate that it has a plan to support business confidence and economic growth, particularly if the economy takes a downward turn.

“The UK needs a strong team to negotiate its withdrawal from the EU, whether that includes Mr Cameron or not. Clarity around this must be part of the roadmap that government needs to provides as it steers us towards an exit.”