Sir Keir Starmer says 'another future is possible' as he enters Labour leadership race

Sir Keir Starmer has become the latest Labour MP to enter the race to succeed Jeremy Corbyn as leader.

The Shadow Brexit Secretary said "another future is possible" as the party tries to pick up the pieces following its devastating general election defeat.

Announcing his plans on Twitter, Starmer said: "I believe another future is possible – but we have to fight for it. That’s why I’m standing to be leader of the Labour Party."

In an accompanying video, the former Director of Public Prosecutions said: "I've spent my life fighting for justice, standing up for the powerless and against the powerful.

"I still believe anther future is possible, where we can open up power and opportunity to all of our communities."

He added: "Another future's possible for our party as well. We can put factionalism and division on one side and unify around a radical programme where we can draw on the talents and strengths of all our members and supporters across the movement "

Writing in the Sunday Mirror, Starmer said he planned to tour the UK setting out "how Labour can rebuild and win" in the future.

"Britain desperately needs a Labour government," he said. "We need a Labour government that will offer people hope of a better future.

"However, that is only going to happen if Labour listens to people about what needs to change and how we can restore trust in our party as a force for good."

Starmer is the fifth Labour MP to enter the leadership race, after Clive Lewis, Emily Thornberry, Jess Phillips and Lisa Nandy.

Labour chairman Ian Lavery, Rebecca Long Bailey and Dan Jarvis are also expected to throw their hats into the ring.

A poll of Labour members asking them who they wanted to replace Corbyn last week gave Starmer a clear lead over his rivals.

The party's ruling National Executive Committee will meet on Monday to finalise the timetable for the leadership contest.