Angela Rayner has been exonerated of any intentional misconduct following an inquiry into her tax affairs, potentially setting the stage for a leadership bid. Health Secretary Wes Streeting is anticipated to challenge the Prime Minister imminently, while Keir Starmer’s previous deputy has not ruled out entering any forthcoming races but asserted she would not instigate a contest.
There are strong indications that the Health Secretary is close to launching a bid for leadership, with a close associate hinting at his resignation today. Efforts to remove the PM were in motion within the party, with Wes Streeting’s supporters reportedly reaching out to MPs for backing.
The aftermath of a tumultuous King’s Speech failed to ease the mounting unrest within the party. Numerous MPs have demanded Starmer’s resignation, and four Government ministers, including Jess Phillips, have stepped down and urged him to depart.
Speculation persists about Andy Burnham, with his backers suggesting he might announce an MP’s resignation to pave the way for his potential candidacy as early as today. Commons Leader Sir Alan Campbell has voiced his support for the Prime Minister, emphasizing that Sir Keir Starmer is actively governing.
In response to inquiries during Business Questions in the Commons, Sir Alan remarked, “I would advise him to cease doomscrolling. The Prime Minister and the Government are focused on governing, and this King’s Speech is promoting opportunity and fostering a fairer Britain.”
Keir Starmer was photographed this morning exiting Downing Street through the back entrance. Health Minister Wes Streeting appears poised to step down, with reports indicating his readiness to compete for the top position as the Labour Party contends with internal strife. Streeting, aged 43, has purportedly informed allies of his intentions to resign from his ministerial post and potentially trigger a leadership race as early as tomorrow. This decision follows a brief crisis meeting with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, as 80 MPs have publicly called for Starmer’s resignation following disappointing local election outcomes last week.
Sir Keir has affirmed his “full confidence” in Streeting; however, uncertainties persist. A spokesperson, when questioned by the Mirror, did not refute these speculations, diplomatically stating, “Wes is the Health Secretary, proud of his accomplishments in reducing waiting lists and fortifying the NHS. He does not plan to make any statements following his meeting with the Prime Minister that may divert attention from the King’s Speech.”