Britain’s David Cameron has announced plans to resign as prime minister following Britain’s decision to leave the European Union.
Speaking after confirmation that the United Kingdom had voted against his pleas to remain in Europe, the Tory leader told reporters outside 10 Downing Street: “I do not think it would be right for me to be the captain that steers our country to its next destination.”
“This is not a decision I’ve taken lightly but I do believe it is in the national interest to have a period of stability and then the new leadership required,” Cameron added.
“I think it’s right that this new Prime Minister takes the decision about when to trigger article 50 and start the process of leaving the EU.”
In a statement to the press, the PM acknowledged that the British people had “made a very clear decision to take a different path” and thus required fresh leadership.
“We should be proud of the fact that in these islands, we trust the people with these big decisions,” Cameron said of the Brexit referendum.
“The British people have voted to leave the European Union and their will must be respected.”
